A heatwave that has been sizzling the US west coast over the past week is now barreling its way east, bringing with it the possibility of record-breaking temperatures for millions of Americans.
As the heatwave shifts east, the National Weather Service is predicting “numerous near-record-tying or breaking high temperatures” for the central High Plains and Southeast on Sunday, and along much of the East Coast by Monday. Cities such as Baltimore and Washington DC can expect temperatures to soar to as high as 100F (38C) by Tuesday, while New York City is expected to experience temperatures in the mid-90s, with a forecasted heat index of 95-100F (35-38C) from Monday to Wednesday.
In fact, over 245 million Americans are expected to experience temperatures of 90F (32C) or higher between Sunday and Wednesday, with at least 30 million expected to face temperatures of 100F (38C) or higher, according to AccuWeather forecasts.
As the heatwave continues to spread, daily records are expected to be broken in areas such as Charlotte and Raleigh, North Carolina, while St Louis, Missouri, is anticipating temperatures near or above 100F (38C) through Monday.
US HeatwaveBut the National Weather Service is warning that certain groups, such as the elderly, small children, people on medication, or with weight or alcohol problems, are particularly susceptible to heat-related stresses, especially during a heatwave in areas where a more moderate climate prevails.
It’s a good idea to periodically check in with those most susceptible to the heat and help them obtain relief from the extreme heat and humidity, the weather service cautioned.
The heatwave comes as June 2024 was declared the hottest month of June on record, and the 13th consecutive hottest month on record, with 14.5% of the world’s surface reporting record heat. Las Vegas, Nevada, recorded a record-breaking seven consecutive days of temperatures 115F (46C) or higher this past week, and the city’s all-time highest temperature of 120F (49C) was recorded on July 7.
The heat has already claimed 37 lives in the US in July 2024, although this number is likely an underestimate, as investigations into deaths take time to complete. The heatwave is expected to continue to spread, bringing scorching temperatures to millions more Americans.