An intense heat wave is affecting over 80 million people. Currently, they are under an Extreme Heat Warning or Heat Advisory, according to the National Weather Service. This heat wave, described as a “steamy air-mass,” is setting records in the South-Central U.S. and expanding to the Southwest. Temperatures are soaring into triple digits. Regions in the desert Southwest, like Arizona and New Mexico, may experience record-breaking heat.
Heat Wave Overview
This heat wave will persist over the Southern Plains and Lower Mississippi Valley. These areas will experience temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The Southwest will keep warming, with highs exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Both day and night temperatures are high. Nights won’t offer much relief, heightening the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Connection to Climate Change
There’s a strong link between climate change and the intensity of heat waves. Rebecca Hersher of NPR reported the prominent climate signal in heat waves. Michael Wehner, a scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, noted that climate change has increased certain types of heat waves in the U.S. by 3 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit.
Reliable Information Sources
To cover extreme weather accurately, journalists use credible sources like the National Climate Assessment and World Weather Attribution. They also rely on tools like maps from the National Weather Service and updated short-range forecasts.
Impact on Health
High temperatures can be life-threatening. The heat index, which considers temperature and humidity, could hit between 105-115 degrees for areas in southern Arizona, Texas, Louisiana, and northern Florida. Heat-related deaths are often undercounted. Humid heat is especially risky as it hampers the body’s natural cooling process. Extreme heat is deadlier than hurricanes, wildfires, and floods combined.
Your Involvement
While extreme weather isn’t new, climate change exacerbates and increases its frequency. NPR aims to help communities understand these impacts. Readers are encouraged to send questions about climate change and extreme weather. This input could guide NPR’s future reporting.