The United States is currently grappling with an intense and persistent heat wave that has shattered previous temperature records across the nation. On Sunday, scorching temperatures continued to bake parts of the West, leading to the tragic death of a motorcyclist in Death Valley. Meanwhile, the East remains under a sweltering and humid grip, making everyday activities a challenge for millions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an excessive heat warning—the highest alert level—for approximately 36 million people, accounting for about 10 percent of the U.S. population, according to NWS meteorologist Bryan Jackson. This severe heat advisory underscores the widespread and dangerous conditions affecting a significant portion of the country.
In the Western and Pacific Northwest regions, dozens of locations have either tied or broken previous heat records. Northern California has seen temperatures soar beyond 43.3 degrees Celsius, with the city of Redding reaching an unprecedented 48.3 degrees Celsius. Phoenix has also made headlines by setting a new daily record for the highest low temperature, never dipping below 33.3 degrees Celsius on Sunday.
These extreme temperatures not only pose immediate health risks but also highlight the growing concerns over climate change and its impact on weather patterns. As communities across the U.S. adapt to increasingly volatile weather, the need for sustainable and resilient infrastructure becomes ever more critical.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
