A devastating heat wave is sweeping across the United States, setting record temperatures from Chicago to the East Coast and placing over 75 million people under extreme heat alerts. The National Weather Service warns of persistent and potentially life-threatening conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 104°F in some northeastern areas. The heat wave is expected to last until at least Friday, with no significant overnight relief, posing a serious threat to vulnerable populations and leading New York to activate the National Guard. Cities like Chicago are shattering temperature records, with the mercury hitting 97°F, the highest since 1957. Cooling centers and public pools have been opened early in New York City, and emergency operations are in full swing to ensure public safety amid concerns over the early arrival of the heat wave and its deadly potential as heat-related deaths last year surpassed 2,300. The heat wave coincides with severe wildfires in the western states, where firefighters battle blazes that have prompted hundreds to evacuate. A coalition is petitioning FEMA to classify heat waves as federally-declared major disasters, reflecting the urgency of the climate crisis. The situation is exacerbated by a storm that could become a Category 1 hurricane, threatening the Texas and northern Mexico coast with potential flooding. This early heat wave, unprecedented in its timing and intensity, is a clear indicator of the escalating impacts of global warming.
Key points
- The US is experiencing a severe heat wave, with record temperatures affecting millions and lasting until at least Friday.
- Wildfires in California and New Mexico have led to evacuations, highlighting the compounding effects of climate change.
- New York has activated the National Guard, and cities like Chicago and New York City have implemented emergency measures to combat the heat.
- A storm approaching the Gulf of Mexico could escalate into a Category 1 hurricane, adding to the extreme weather conditions.
