This past weekend, more than 100 million people, approximately one-third of Americans, found themselves under extreme heat advisories as a scorching heatwave enveloped the nation.
The oppressive heat shattered records and is expected to persist into the new week.
Record-Breaking Heatwave as Extreme Temperatures Persist
From coast to coast, regions such as the southwest and parts of the west have been hit particularly hard, prompting officials to warn of worsening conditions in states like Arizona, California, and Nevada.
The National Weather Service urged residents to take the heat seriously, emphasizing the potentially deadly consequences without adequate cooling and hydration.
As the heatwave continues, measures such as extended hours at cooling centers and increased readiness in emergency rooms aim to address heat-related illnesses.
In Phoenix, Arizona, the forecast predicted temperatures reaching 118F (47.7C) on Sunday, potentially marking the city’s 17th consecutive day of temperatures at 110F (43.3C) or higher.
With the record for consecutive days above 110F set at 18 in 1974, Phoenix is likely to surpass that milestone on Tuesday. Disturbingly, the Maricopa County health department reported 12 heat-related deaths in the Phoenix area this year, with an additional 55 deaths currently under investigation.
Authorities are urging caution and providing safety tips, including staying hydrated and checking on vulnerable individuals.
As the heatwave persists, concerns have been raised regarding the lack of nighttime cooling spaces for the unsheltered population.
Advocates for the homeless in Phoenix criticized the limited options available, emphasizing the vulnerability of those without shelter during extreme heat.
Local police shared a troubling incident in Surprise, a Phoenix suburb, where two elderly women were found enduring 114F (45.5C) temperatures with an inadequate air conditioning unit.
Read more: Temperatures Soar Across US: Vegas Races Towards Historic Highs
Heatwave Crisis Spurs Urgent Action
Following their rescue, the community services team installed a proper air conditioner and fans in their home, highlighting the urgent need for cooling options during heatwaves.
Cities across the affected regions have implemented measures to alleviate the impact of the heatwave.
As air-conditioned libraries, police station lobbies, and other public facilities in states like Texas and California opened their doors to provide comfort, Las Vegas casinos provided a reprieve from the sweltering weather.
As temperatures threatened to surpass the city’s all-time high of 117F, emergency department doctors in Las Vegas noted an uptick in people seeking care for heat-related diseases (47.2C).
In Albuquerque, New Mexico, splash pads extended their hours, and public pools offered free admission.
Churches and nonprofit groups in Boise, Idaho, stepped up by providing water, sunscreen, and shelter.
The hot and dry conditions have also led to a series of wildfires in southern California, fueled by low humidity and high temperatures.
Firefighters have been battling multiple blazes in sparsely populated areas, emphasizing the risks posed by the heatwave.
Additionally, the scorching temperatures raise concerns about the long-term climate crisis. Lawmakers and officials have faced questions about the heatwave and the need for a comprehensive response to climate change.
Discussions include suggestions for financial assistance to states suffering from extreme heatwaves and the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Read more: Canadian Wildfires Outbreak Sends Unhealthy Plume To US Citizens
