extreme weather has become the protagonist in United States during these days, with a new heat wave affecting millions of people in different parts of the country. The phenomenon, which began moving from the southwest, has been spreading its effects toward the northeast and the Great Lakes region, leaving temperatures in its wake well above the usual values for this time of year.
From cities like Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Death Valley in the south, up to New York, Philadelphia and Boston In the northeast, the population is facing Temperatures and a feeling of heat that far exceed the seasonal averageThe National Weather Service warns that adverse conditions will persist for several days and, in some cases, could set new temperature records.
Hardest hit regions and weather forecast
Official bodies indicate that more than 15 million remain under alert for extreme heat in areas including eastern California, Nevada, Arizona, west Texas, and much of the Midwest and Northeast corridor. Highs in cities such as Chicago, Detroit and Pittsburgh have also rebounded, joining the list of affected localities.
In areas such as south-central Arizona temperatures of up to 46 °C have been recorded, while death Valley does not rule out exceeding 48 °C on successive days. For its part, New York y Philadelphia Temperatures could reach 38°C, which is unusual for the start of astronomical summer. The heat index, which combines temperature and humidity, makes the temperature feel even more oppressive in large eastern cities, such as Washington D.C. o Boston.
Health alert and risk groups
Authorities insist that these conditions can have a notable impact on public health, especially among older people, young children, who present chronic pathologies and workers who work outdoors. Prolonged exposure to such high temperatures can trigger episodes of exhaustion, dehydration and heat stroke, being crucial to be alert to any symptoms derived from the heat wave.
In response, the National Metereological Service has implemented warnings and notices that are constantly updated, and in many localities they have been enabled cooling centers to accommodate those without air conditioning.
Effects of extreme heat on infrastructure and daily life
Heat not only affects health, but also everyday life and urban infrastructure. High electricity consumption, due to the intensive use of cooling systems, can put electrical networks at risk. and even cause occasional power outages. Furthermore, the asphalt and roads are suffering from the shading and deformation of materials, impacting urban and rural mobility.
In different locations, support and aid programs such as Cooling Assistance Benefit In New York, vulnerable families are allowed to apply for free installation of air conditioning units or fans. These initiatives strengthen protection against high temperatures, especially among those who need it most.
Why do these heat waves recur?
Experts stress that the emergence of systems of persistent high blood pressureKnown as heat dome o heat dome, is behind these episodes. This meteorological phenomenon prevents the formation of clouds and limits the entry of cold fronts, allowing the heat to accumulate and spread over large areas of the country for several days in a row.
The scientific community emphasizes that the climate change is increasing the frequency, intensity, and duration of heat waves, making these events increasingly common in the American summer calendar.
Recommendations and preventive measures
Given this situation, the population is recommended avoid intense physical activities during the central hours of the day, stay well hydrated, wear light clothing, and seek shelter in cool spaces whenever possible. Authorities also suggest monitoring local alerts, regularly checking on the well-being of seniors and children, and not leaving pets or people inside parked vehicles.
With these conditions expected to continue for several days, it is essential to take responsible habits and don't let your guard down against the risks associated with extreme heat. After a brief respite, temperatures are likely to rise again in mid- to late July, when the highest temperatures of the year are traditionally reached in the Northern Hemisphere.
The current heat wave in the United States reflects the increasingly evident and recurring nature of extreme weather events, posing new challenges for both emergency management and the daily lives of millions of people. Prevention, information, and social support are the key tools for addressing a challenge that, for now, appears set to remain a fixture of the American summer.
