The summer season in the western United States has kicked off early this year, with scorching temperatures breaking records. Death Valley in California hit a sweltering 124 degrees Fahrenheit, ranking it among the hottest locations globally. Temperatures in various states have soared 10 to 30 degrees above normal, with cities like Casper, Wyoming, and Chula Vista, California, shattering previous high-temperature records by significant margins.
Approximately 40 million residents in the southwest are under a heat advisory, a number that could surge to 110 million in the coming week if the heatwave persists. Meteorologists anticipate up to 200 heat records could be shattered by the end of this extreme weather event.
A tweet about the scorching temperatures in Phoenix, Arizona.
— shannon (@sjmanuelito) June 16, 2021
These soaring temperatures, along with low humidity and strong winds, pose risks beyond discomfort, reminiscent of conditions that fueled wildfires in California previously. Water bodies are drying up quickly, leading to droughts and water shortages, exacerbating energy demands from widespread air conditioning use.
If you find yourself in an area affected by the heatwave, prioritize staying indoors, seeking shade, and staying well-hydrated. Remember to check on vulnerable neighbors, especially the elderly, to ensure their safety during this extreme weather.