NEW DELHI: Over 75 million people across the United States were under extreme heat alerts on Monday as a significant heat wave moved eastward. The mid-Atlantic and New England regions are expected to experience highs in the 90s as the week progresses, with excessive humidity making conditions feel even more oppressive. The National Weather Service highlighted the duration of this heat wave as potentially the longest experienced in decades for some areas.
The heat wave is particularly dangerous in places like Phoenix, where a record 645 people died from heat-related causes in 2023. Last year, the US recorded the highest number of heat waves since 1936, defined as abnormally hot weather lasting more than two days. Officials have once again issued warnings to residents, urging them to take necessary precautions to stay safe. Much of the Midwest and Northeast were under heat warnings or watches, emphasizing the widespread nature of this weather event.
What regions are affected by the heat wave?
Over 75 million people in the United States are under extreme heat alerts, with the mid-Atlantic and New England regions expected to see highs in the 90s as the week progresses. Much of the Midwest and Northeast are also under heat warnings or watches.
How severe is the current heat wave?
The National Weather Service has noted that the duration of this heat wave is potentially the longest experienced in decades for some locations. Last year, the US saw the most heat waves since 1936, and officials are again warning residents to take precautions.
What safety measures are recommended?
Ted Whittock, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Phoenix, advises reducing time outdoors between 10am and 6 pm, staying hydrated, and wearing light, loose-fitting clothing. Over 100 cooling centers are available in Phoenix and the surrounding areas.
How are outdoor workers coping with the heat?
Workers in various regions are taking frequent breaks, staying hydrated, and using cooling methods. In Farmington Hills, Michigan, for example, workers take breaks every 15 minutes and drink plenty of water. Chris Sander of Powder Monkey Fireworks ensures his employees have access to air-conditioned spaces and encourages them to take breaks and cool off.
What are the health risks associated with the heat wave?
Emergency medical services across the US have already responded to over 2,400 heat-related emergencies between June 1 and June 14. Signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke are significant concerns, especially for outdoor workers and vulnerable populations.
What actions are being taken in response to the extreme heat?
The Center for Biological Diversity has petitioned the Federal Emergency Management Agency to recognize extreme heat and wildfire smoke as major disasters. While FEMA has not issued a specific response, a spokesperson mentioned that an emergency declaration for extreme heat is possible if there is an immediate threat to life and safety that local authorities cannot address.
Are there any contrasting weather conditions in the US?
Yes, while much of the US is experiencing extreme heat, the northern Rockies are expecting late-season snow. Parts of Montana and north-central Idaho are under a winter storm warning, with up to 20 inches of snow predicted for higher elevations around Glacier National Park. Additionally, the central Gulf Coast faces heavy rain and flash flooding due to tropical moisture.
(With inputs from agencies)
The heat wave is particularly dangerous in places like Phoenix, where a record 645 people died from heat-related causes in 2023. Last year, the US recorded the highest number of heat waves since 1936, defined as abnormally hot weather lasting more than two days. Officials have once again issued warnings to residents, urging them to take necessary precautions to stay safe. Much of the Midwest and Northeast were under heat warnings or watches, emphasizing the widespread nature of this weather event.
What regions are affected by the heat wave?
Over 75 million people in the United States are under extreme heat alerts, with the mid-Atlantic and New England regions expected to see highs in the 90s as the week progresses. Much of the Midwest and Northeast are also under heat warnings or watches.
How severe is the current heat wave?
The National Weather Service has noted that the duration of this heat wave is potentially the longest experienced in decades for some locations. Last year, the US saw the most heat waves since 1936, and officials are again warning residents to take precautions.
What safety measures are recommended?
Ted Whittock, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Phoenix, advises reducing time outdoors between 10am and 6 pm, staying hydrated, and wearing light, loose-fitting clothing. Over 100 cooling centers are available in Phoenix and the surrounding areas.
How are outdoor workers coping with the heat?
Workers in various regions are taking frequent breaks, staying hydrated, and using cooling methods. In Farmington Hills, Michigan, for example, workers take breaks every 15 minutes and drink plenty of water. Chris Sander of Powder Monkey Fireworks ensures his employees have access to air-conditioned spaces and encourages them to take breaks and cool off.
What are the health risks associated with the heat wave?
Emergency medical services across the US have already responded to over 2,400 heat-related emergencies between June 1 and June 14. Signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke are significant concerns, especially for outdoor workers and vulnerable populations.
What actions are being taken in response to the extreme heat?
The Center for Biological Diversity has petitioned the Federal Emergency Management Agency to recognize extreme heat and wildfire smoke as major disasters. While FEMA has not issued a specific response, a spokesperson mentioned that an emergency declaration for extreme heat is possible if there is an immediate threat to life and safety that local authorities cannot address.
Are there any contrasting weather conditions in the US?
Yes, while much of the US is experiencing extreme heat, the northern Rockies are expecting late-season snow. Parts of Montana and north-central Idaho are under a winter storm warning, with up to 20 inches of snow predicted for higher elevations around Glacier National Park. Additionally, the central Gulf Coast faces heavy rain and flash flooding due to tropical moisture.
(With inputs from agencies)