In the coming days, the Midwest and Northeast regions of the United States are bracing for a dangerous heat wave. According to various weather forecasts and reports from health officials, temperatures could reach record-breaking levels in some areas, potentially leading to heat-related illnesses or even fatalities. Let's take a closer look at what we can expect.
The Midwest is expected to experience its worst heat wave in over 20 years. Detroit metro area, for instance, may see temperatures reaching as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38°C). This extreme heat follows an earlier-than-usual heatwave in the Southwest last week, which saw triple-digit temperatures and resulted in over 645 heat-related deaths in Phoenix alone. The world has seen record high temperatures this year, with three quarters of the global population experiencing at least one month of extreme heat.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued several alerts for excessive heat warnings and advisories across various states including Ohio Valley, Northeast, and Midwest. These alerts are in place from Sunday to Friday.
Heat can lead to various health issues such as muscle cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, fatigue, weak pulse, cool pale skin, headache, dizziness, nausea and fainting. Heat stroke symptoms include a headache, confusion or disorientation; hot dry skin with no sweat; high body temperature (above 103°F or 39.4°C); rapid strong pulse; and shallow breathing.
Health officials are urging people to take necessary precautions to stay safe during this heat wave. They recommend staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day, wearing loose-fitting clothing, drinking plenty of water, and checking on friends and family members who may be at higher risk for heat-related illnesses or deaths.
Some cities including Chicago, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and Boston could set new record highs during this heat wave. Many areas will only experience relief from the heat overnight with temperatures dipping into the 70s (21-24°C). However, some locations may even see record-warm lows.
It's important to note that extreme heat can disproportionately affect certain populations such as young children and infants, pregnant women, elderly individuals, people with chronic medical conditions, those who cannot get around well or live alone. Black Americans are also at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses or deaths due to preexisting health disparities.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
