A record-breaking heat wave continues to scorch the western United States, with temperatures reaching dangerous levels in Death Valley. On July 6, 2024, the temperature in Death Valley reached a record-breaking high of 128 degrees Fahrenheit (53.3 degrees Celsius). The extreme heat claimed the life of one motorcyclist and sent another to the hospital with severe heat illness.
Visitors from around the world flocked to Death Valley National Park to experience the extreme temperatures, but many were not prepared for the dangerous conditions. Authorities warned visitors about the risks of spending prolonged periods outside during such high temperatures and advised them to stay hydrated and avoid hiking in lower elevations.
The heatwave is expected to continue through July 11, with large parts of California, Nevada, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Florida, Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi under excessive heat warnings or advisories. The National Weather Service has issued its highest alert for the affected areas.
Despite the danger posed by the extreme heatwave, some motorcyclists continued to ride through Death Valley. One group of six riders was reportedly affected by the extreme temperatures on July 6, with one member dying and another being taken to a hospital in Las Vegas for severe heat illness. The four other riders were treated and released.
The National Park Service Rangers are investigating the death of the motorcyclist, who died near Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. The rider was with a group of six motorcyclists traveling through the park when they were affected by the extreme heat.
The excessive heat warning is in effect for portions of California, Nevada, Arizona, Oregon, Washington and Idaho. Parts of the East Coast and states including Florida, Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi are under heat advisories.
Visitors to Death Valley National Park are advised to choose their activities carefully and avoid prolonged periods outside during extreme heat. They should also stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, wear loose fitting lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat or carry a sun umbrella and avoid hiking in lower elevations.
The European climate service Copernicus reported that the global temperature in June was record warm for the 13th straight month and marked the 12th straight month that the world was 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than pre-industrial times.
The National Weather Service's highest alert, an excessive heat warning, is in effect for portions of California, Nevada, Arizona, Oregon, Washington and Idaho.
