Extreme Heat Wave Sweeps Across Western United States, Breaking Records and Threatening Health

Heat Dome Intensifies, Worsening Dangerous Heat Wave in Western US

An already dangerous weekslong heat wave is set to worsen this weekend as a heat dome intensifies and reaches peak strength over parts of the Western United States. The National Weather Service in Phoenix has called this heat dome “one of the strongest high pressure systems this region has ever seen.” As a result, around 100 heat records could be broken today through the weekend, adding to the more than 1,000 high temperature records already broken in the US since June.

More than 90 million people are currently under heat alerts as the heat dome expands into areas like California, which is now experiencing its first extreme heat wave of the year. Texas, Florida, and Arizona have already been enduring dangerously hot temperatures for weeks, with Phoenix in the midst of a likely record-breaking streak of consecutive 110-degree days. In fact, the low temperature in Phoenix may not drop below 90 degrees for eight consecutive days, setting another record.

The intensity of the heat is such that forecasters have advised residents of Las Vegas to avoid the outdoors between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., as the city is forecasted to challenge its all-time high temperature of 117 degrees on Sunday. Even at night, temperatures will remain high, with lows nearing 90 degrees. This is a particularly dangerous side effect of the climate crisis.

In addition, California’s Death Valley, known as the hottest place on Earth, could reach rare highs of 130 degrees on Sunday. This has only occurred a handful of times, one of which set the all-time global record high temperature of 134 degrees.

This extreme heat is a clear indication of human-caused climate change, which has been manifesting in various ways this year. Unprecedented ocean heat off the coast of Florida and in the North Atlantic, record heat in Beijing, and an ongoing heat wave in Europe are all contributing to what could be the hottest year on record.

The impact on human health is a serious concern, according to doctors. Dr. Matthew Levy of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine warns that this heat is deadly, and prolonged exposure can be fatal. Heat illness can be triggered in as little as 20 to 30 minutes for those engaging in strenuous outdoor activities. The elderly and those with preexisting health conditions are even more vulnerable.

Major metro areas like Phoenix and Las Vegas are particularly at risk this weekend. The Southwest and California’s Central Valley are under a rare “extreme” level of heat risk, equivalent to a “high risk” for tornadoes. This level of risk indicates significant heat impacts that require preparation. Residents should anticipate spikes in heat-related emergency room visits, potential power outages, and temperatures high enough to be life-threatening, especially for outdoor workers and those without reliable cooling.

To stay safe, workers are advised to take frequent hydration breaks, wear clothing that reflects the sun, and have a buddy system in place to ensure no one is left alone in the heat when illness strikes. For those without reliable cooling, finding a cooling center and having a plan to get there before the need arises is recommended.

Tragically, heat-related deaths have already occurred this year, with at least 12 people in Phoenix’s Maricopa County losing their lives. Last year, heat claimed the lives of 425 people in the city. In response, Phoenix has opened “respite centers” to provide relief, and the state has urged residents to keep their vehicles stocked with water.

Even after this weekend, the heat will persist. Longer-term temperature outlooks from the Climate Prediction Center indicate above-normal temperatures across Southern California, the Southwest, South, and Florida through next week.

As the heat wave continues to grip the Western US, it serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and its devastating consequences.

How is the current heat wave impacting infrastructure and increasing the risk of wildfires, and what measures are being taken to mitigate these effects

L of Medicine warns that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other heat-related illnesses. Vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions are at an even higher risk.

The dangerous heat wave is also putting a strain on infrastructure and increasing the risk of wildfires. Power grids are being pushed to their limits as people rely heavily on air conditioning, and the dry conditions create the perfect environment for fires to spread quickly. Firefighters are already battling numerous wildfires across the Western US, and the extreme heat will only exacerbate these conditions.

As the heat dome continues to intensify, it is crucial for individuals to take necessary precautions to stay safe. This includes staying hydrated, seeking shade or air conditioning, wearing lightweight and light-colored clothing, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Furthermore, this heat wave serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change. The excessive heat, along with other extreme weather events, is a clear indication that the Earth’s climate is becoming increasingly unstable. Continued efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy sources are essential in order to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect our planet for future generations.