A severe heat wave is sweeping across the United States, with millions of people in the midwest and eastern regions bracing for dangerous temperatures. The National Weather Service has issued heat advisories and excessive heat warnings from Kansas to South Carolina, as well as in major cities such as New York, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C.
The East Coast is expected to experience some of the hottest temperatures of the summer, with many cities reaching or exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. In Philadelphia, Mayor Cherelle Parker has declared a heat health emergency and announced that over 150 cooling centers will be open for residents.
The heat wave is also affecting other parts of the country. In the West, red flag warnings are in place for critical fire weather conditions due to strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures. Flash floods and tornadoes are forecast in parts of the midwest including Illinois and Minneapolis.
The heat wave follows a similar event that scorched large swaths of Mexico, Central America, and the southern US in May and June. According to research by leading climate scientists from World Weather Attribution, the deadly heatwave was made 35 times more likely due to human-induced global heating.
It is important for individuals to take precautions during this heat wave, such as staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, and checking on elderly neighbors or family members. Cooling centers and other resources are available in many areas for those in need.
The National Weather Service advises that everyone should take this heat seriously and stay informed about local weather conditions. Heat-related illnesses can be life-threatening, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and people with chronic health conditions.
