Millions in the South are enduring a severe heat wave, with expectations of new record highs this week.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings of “record-breaking heat” in various regions of the U.S., including the Four Corners states, Texas, the lower Mississippi Valley, and South Florida.
This extreme heat is not confined to the U.S. alone. Globally, countries across Europe and Asia are also experiencing intense heat waves. Notably, Xinjiang in China recorded its highest-ever temperature.
In the U.S., some areas in the Southwest are nearing or setting new heat records.
For instance, Furnace Creek in California’s Death Valley reached 128 degrees Fahrenheit on July 16, the hottest ever recorded for that date. Residents are advised to minimize outdoor activities due to the extreme heat.
Europe and Asia are similarly struggling with unprecedented temperatures and severe weather conditions, including deadly floods.
The National Weather Service reported that Death Valley, California, reached 126 degrees today, making it the hottest location in the contiguous U.S. In contrast, Peter Sinks, Utah, experienced the coldest temperature of 33 degrees, due to its unique geographical features that trap cold air.
While Death Valley is known for its extreme heat, it doesn’t always record the highest temperatures. On Sunday, Baker, California, recorded a peak temperature of 129 degrees, surpassing Death Valley’s highs for that day.