A scorching heat wave has enveloped 16 states, stretching from Washington to Florida, putting 90mn Americans under heat alerts and prompting concerns over public health and safety. With soaring temperatures and oppressive humidity, authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe and cool.
The extreme heat has shattered records, with the all-time global heat record at Furnace Creek in Death Valley, California, potentially in jeopardy. With temperatures already reaching above 54 degrees Celsius five times, there is an anxious anticipation as meteorologists monitor the area closely. The current world record stands at 57 degrees Celsius.
In addition to Death Valley, several cities are experiencing unprecedented heat levels. Phoenix and Tucson in Arizona, as well as Tampa, Fort Myers, and Key West in Florida, have witnessed the hottest first two weeks of July ever recorded. El Paso, Texas, has endured a scorching heatwave for an astonishing 29 consecutive days, with no respite in sight as the forecast predicts at least another week of triple-digit temperatures. At least 38 temperature records are at risk of being broken from Oregon to Key West, Florida, with July 16 expected to be particularly intense.
As if the blistering heat wasn't enough, a maritime heat wave off the coast of Florida has led to unusually high water temperatures. The water temperatures in the 90s along the southern coast offer little relief to those seeking respite from the oppressive heat.
Meanwhile, across the border in Canada, an alarming number of wildfires have ignited, resulting in dire consequences for both the environment and air quality. Currently, there are 910 active wildfires raging across the country, and over 4,000 fires have been recorded this year, consuming a staggering 24mn acres of land—a record-breaking start to the season.
The smoke from these fires is being carried by northwesterly winds into the United States, affecting regions like Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Bismarck, North Dakota, with Chicago, Illinois, and Indianapolis, Indiana, set to experience smoky skies by July 16. Nashville, Tennessee, Columbus, Ohio, and Atlanta, Georgia, will also see hazier conditions due to the smoke. Air quality alerts have been issued from Montana to Kentucky due to the current or anticipated smoke.
In the Northeast, a flood watch has been issued as heavy rainfall and storms are expected to drench the region. Approximately 40mn people are under this flood watch, particularly in parts of eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New Hampshire, and Maine. The already saturated soil coupled with the potential for significant rainfall raises concerns about flooding in low-lying areas and along waterways.
Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to stay hydrated, seek shelter in air-conditioned spaces, and look out for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and young children. With the ongoing heat wave and environmental challenges, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and prioritize their well-being during this extraordinary weather event.
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