The US is bracing for a hot and smoky summer as extreme heatwaves continue to spread across the country, with no relief in sight for the next week or longer, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Weather Prediction Center. The heat dome that has taxed the Texas power grid and brought record highs to parts of the state is expected to spread eastward, with temperatures forecast to rise above 110F (43C) in some areas.
The effects of the heatwave are being felt far and wide, with numerous air quality alerts issued across northeastern states including Maryland and Virginia. The heat has been blamed for at least 13 deaths in Texas and one in Louisiana, and authorities are warning of dangerous, triple-digit temperatures. The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation has urged residents to drink primarily water due to the extreme heat and humidity, which increases the potential for heat-related illnesses.
The heatwave has also caused lingering power outages, making life even more miserable for those affected. Officials are advising residents to stay hydrated, shelter in air-conditioned rooms, and check on friends and neighbors. For those who are still waiting for power to be restored, relief is limited, with many turning to shady spots outside and taking cold showers to cool off.
Dr. Corinne Stern, the county medical examiner for Webb County, Texas, where 11 of the heat-related deaths occurred, noted that many of the deceased had underlying health conditions. In Louisiana, a 49-year-old man died on Sunday after he was found lying on a sidewalk, and in Florida, two residents died while hiking in extreme heat at Big Bend national park.
US HeatwaveThe situation is particularly dire for those in St. Louis, where temperatures are expected to reach 100F (38C) on Thursday and Friday before a slight cool-down on Sunday. Gentry Trotter, who runs Cooldownstlouis.org, is working to provide window air conditioners to the elderly and needy, with volunteers recently delivering appliances to an 83-year-old woman whose indoor temperature was measured at 105F (40.6C).
As the heat continues to take its toll, a new survey by the Society of Actuaries Research Institute has found that 53% of Americans have reported that extreme weather events, including heatwaves, have adversely affected their health. The survey results show that 42% have experienced short-term injury or illness, 23% report complications to an existing chronic condition, and 15% have suffered a long-term injury or new chronic condition.
The heatwave is also having a significant impact on property and communities, with over half of respondents reporting negative impacts on their property and over 65% reporting negative impacts on their feelings of general safety. For now, it seems the US will have to endure a hot and smoky summer, with no immediate relief in sight.