A punishing heat wave is sweeping across the Western United States, with temperatures expected to peak at dangerous levels in California, Nevada, and Arizona this week. The intense heat is being caused by a high pressure system known as a 'heat dome,' which traps air and heats it with abundant sunshine for days or weeks, making heat more intense as it lasts longer.
Several cities are forecast to break daily record high temperatures this week. Sacramento hit triple digits for the first time this year on Monday, with a high of 100 degrees. Las Vegas was just a degree shy of its hottest temperature, and numerous daily records were broken in Texas.
Death Valley is forecast to reach a high temperature of at least 120 degrees by Thursday, even though it doesn't typically get this hot until mid-to-late June. Phoenix will likely hit 110 degrees for the first time this year by Thursday, even though it doesn't typically encounter these temperatures until mid-June.
High temperatures are forecast to climb into the low 110s in Las Vegas, likely tying this year with 2010 for the earliest such reading on record in the city. Several cities where daily high temperature records could fall on one or more days this week include Phoenix, Las Vegas, Flagstaff, Arizona and Fresno, California.
Dangerous heat kills more people each year than hurricanes and tornadoes combined, according to the National Weather Service. It's important to take precautions against the heat and stay hydrated.
Excessive heat warnings have been issued for nearly 19 million people in California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah, as well as South Texas. The National Weather Service advises taking frequent breaks if you need to be outside, staying in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible, and wearing loose and lightweight clothing.
The heat wave is a reminder of the ongoing issue of climate change and fossil fuel pollution, which contribute to rising temperatures around the world. It's important for individuals and governments to take steps to reduce their carbon footprint and transition to renewable energy sources.
