North America is facing a fierce onset of summer as a heatwave engulfs the western United States and Mexico, bringing with it scorching temperatures and extreme weather conditions. The National Weather Service and the National Meteorological Service have issued urgent heat warnings, with over 36 million Americans currently under heat alerts. In Mexico, temperatures have soared above 45°C in at least 11 entities, and tropical wave No. 2 is anticipated to exacerbate the situation in the Yucatan Peninsula.In the United States, the heatwave is expected to shatter records, with temperatures predicted to reach 50°C in some areas, including Death Valley and Las Vegas. Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada are bracing for dangerous levels of heat, with excessive heat warnings in place starting Tuesday. The California Environmental Protection Agency has highlighted the increased risk of heat-related illnesses for vulnerable groups such as outdoor workers, the elderly, and children.This heatwave, which is expected to last for 10-14 days, is part of a broader trend of rising temperatures and extreme heat events. 2024 is projected to be the hottest year on record, and the World Weather Attribution report has noted that 80% of the global population experienced at least 31 days of extreme heat in 2023. The heatwave is also expected to worsen air quality and increase the risk of wildfires, with the Corral Fire in California already burning over 14,000 acres.As temperatures continue to climb, residents are advised to stay hydrated, minimize exposure to the sun, and prepare for potential power outages and fire risks. The scientific community is united in the view that human-caused climate change is contributing to the frequency and severity of these heatwaves, signaling an urgent need for global action on climate change.
Key points
- A severe heatwave is affecting the western United States and Mexico, with temperatures expected to exceed 38°C and reach up to 50°C in some areas.
- The heatwave is expected to last for 10-14 days, with the highest temperatures forecasted for Wednesday and Thursday.
- Over 36 million Americans are under heat alerts, and the heatwave is expected to break temperature records.
- Vulnerable groups are at increased risk of heat-related illnesses, and there is a heightened risk of wildfires.
- 2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record, with a significant portion of the global population experiencing extreme heat in 2023.
