An intense heat wave is hitting the United States, affecting tens of millions of people. More than 120 million residents could be threatened by this extreme weather phenomenon, which brings with it scorching temperatures and high humidity levels.
Heat wave in the United States: a growing threat
The situation is especially critical from the center of the country to the Atlantic coast. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), temperatures are far exceeding 37.7 ºC in the Great Plains and 32 ºC in the Midwest.
The movement of heat towards the northeast in the coming days has put authorities on alert, fearing for public health risks, especially for vulnerable people and those without access to cooling systems.
Additionally, the electrical infrastructure is under pressure due to the high energy demand from air conditioning use, which could lead to power outages in various areas.
The extreme conditions have already resulted in around 30 deaths related to the heat, with New Jersey being the most affected state, with 25 fatal victims.
The National Weather Service has also issued warnings for heavy rains and flash floods in Texas, reflecting the extreme climate variability of this summer.
The combination of these phenomena poses significant challenges for emergency management authorities, and the population is urged to stay informed and take preventive measures.
Finally, authorities emphasize the importance of constant hydration, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, and seeking shelter in air-conditioned spaces during the hottest hours.
These severe weather events underscore the urgency of addressing climate change and its devastating impact on the daily lives of millions of Americans.
