Southwestern United States experiences record breaking heatwave
Monday, July 17, 2023
The southwestern United States is experiencing a record-breaking heat wave that is expected to expand eastward in the coming week, according to meteorologists.
Tens of millions of Americans are under heat-related weather alerts, stretching from the West to the South Central states.
The States like California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona have been particularly affected, with temperatures soaring into the triple digits for days. Phoenix, Arizona, recently recorded its third consecutive record high temperature, reaching 118 degrees Fahrenheit, surpassing the previous record set in 1998.
The city is also on track to break the record for consecutive days with temperatures at or above 110 degrees. The extreme heat is occurring during a time when temperatures are already at their highest relative to historical averages.
The heat wave is attributed to a large area of high pressure that remains stagnant over the region, preventing any relief from the scorching temperatures.
The locations like Las Vegas, Fresno, and Phoenix are expected to experience the highest temperatures of the heat wave, with records likely to be challenged. Death Valley, California, known as one of the hottest places on Earth, could approach 130 degrees Fahrenheit, just shy of the disputed world record.
People are advised to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities during daylight hours, and seek air-conditioned environments to prevent heat-related illnesses. The heat wave is expected to persist into the upcoming weekend, with temperatures remaining well above historical averages.