The western U.S. is facing a historic heat wave with alerts issued even for coastal cities, including Los Angeles and San Francisco, and normally cooler places, like Seattle and Portland, Oregon.
The heat wave could break all-time records.
Las Vegas could hit or even break its all-time hottest temperature of 117 degrees on Sunday. Death Valley could hit 129 degrees, just 5 degrees shy of all-time hottest temperature recorded on Earth.
Portland could hit 100 degrees and Seattle could be in the 90s this weekend.
The record heat will not stop this weekend, with more expected next week.
In the South and East, heat alerts have been issued Friday from Miami to Atlanta to Philadelphia and up to Newark, New Jersey, where the heat index will have it feeling like 100 to 110 degrees in some areas.
Another scorcher is forecast for the East Coast on Saturday before a cold front brings some relief in the form of showers and thunderstorms.
Ken Gergits, 53, panhandles for water in the blazing sun as temperatures reached 100 degrees in Santa Rosa, Calif., on July 3, 2024.
Gabrielle Lurie/San Francisco Chronicle via Polaris
The Deep South stays oppressively hot through the weekend with the heat index climbing into the 100s.
As scorching temperatures sweep across the country, millions of people are feeling the effects of a relentless heat wave. From the East Coast to the West Coast, record-breaking temperatures are being recorded, leading to dangerous conditions for both humans and the environment.
The heat wave is being caused by a combination of factors, including high pressure systems that are trapping hot air over large portions of the country. Climate change is also playing a role, as rising global temperatures are making extreme heat events more common and more severe.
In cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, temperatures have soared well above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, with heat indices making it feel even hotter. This has led to an increased risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. It is important for people to stay hydrated, seek out air-conditioned spaces, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
The heat wave is also taking a toll on the environment. Drought conditions are worsening in many areas, leading to water shortages and crop failures. Wildfires are also a major concern, as dry vegetation and high winds create ideal conditions for fires to spread rapidly.
In response to the heat wave, local governments are opening cooling centers and issuing heat advisories to warn residents of the dangers of extreme heat. Utility companies are also urging people to conserve energy to prevent blackouts and brownouts.
As the heat wave continues to sweep across the country, it is important for everyone to take precautions to stay safe and healthy. By staying informed, staying cool, and looking out for one another, we can weather this extreme weather event together.
