More than 55 million people, from southern Arizona to the Florida coast, are sweating under a heat wave that is expected to worsen this week, pushing temperatures into the triple digits (measured in Fahrenheit).
Excessive heat warnings are in effect in Dallas, New Orleans, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where temperatures are forecast to reach 120 degrees.
The scorching temperatures in the South are being driven by a “heat dome,” which is created when a high-pressure ridge forms over an area, trapping air inside as temperatures rise – often to uncomfortable or even dangerous levels.
To exacerbate the dangerous effects of the heat wave, there will be warm temperatures at night as well, providing little to no relief, the forecasting center said. Temperatures will not drop below 80 degrees at night in many areas like Dallas, New Orleans, and Shreveport.
The heat wave is expected to worsen before it improves, with no relief in sight before early next week.
And heat domes that drive record temperatures are expected to become more frequent – and hotter – due to the climate crisis.
Meanwhile, more than 90 temperature records could be broken this week, from Texas to Missouri and Florida.
“Extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for those working or participating in outdoor activities,” the National Weather Service warned on Monday (26).
Extreme heat in Texas has already contributed to at least two deaths in the remote Big Bend National Park on Friday (23), where temperatures reached 119 degrees. The state has been experiencing a heat wave for more than two weeks.
The Texas Department of State Health Services has been warning residents to take precautions to protect themselves from heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
“Stay cool, drink plenty of fluids, wear lightweight clothing, and limit strenuous outdoor activities,” the health department said, adding that elderly residents, young children, people with chronic illnesses, and those without access to air conditioning are at greater risk.
Source: CNN