Janice R. Andrews
As temperatures break records and heat indices rise into the triple digits, Americans are dealing with extraordinary heat across much of the country. Heat.gov reports that over 160 million people were under an excessive heat alert on Tuesday. The western United States, as well as sizable portions of the South, Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and southern New England, are all under an intense heat wave.
Temperatures That Break Records
Almost all of Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, and western Arizona are expected to have temperatures between 10 and 30 degrees above average. On Wednesday, temperatures in Boise, Idaho, are predicted to soar to 109 degrees, while heat indices in some areas of northeastern New Jersey may as high as 105 degrees.
“The multi-day length and record warm overnight temperatures will continue to cause heat stress to anyone without adequate cooling and hydration,” stated the National Weather Service.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
It is predicted that temperatures in western Arizona, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, and California will be 10 to 30 degrees above average. Boise, Idaho, is expected to see record highs of 109 degrees on Wednesday, and parts of northeastern New Jersey might see heat indices as high as 105 degrees.
“The multi-day length and record warm overnight temperatures will continue to cause heat stress to anyone without adequate cooling and hydration,” said the National Weather Service.
Impact of Infrastructure on Public Health
One motorcyclist died and another was hospitalized at Death Valley National Park on Saturday, when temperatures reached as high as 128 degrees. The intense heat prevented rescue helicopters from operating.
Reels from Tropical Storm Beryl in Houston
Due to Tropical Storm Beryl, nearly 2 million people in Houston lost power, rendering air conditioning unusable while dangerously high temperatures are predicted. By the end of Tuesday, CenterPoint Energy hopes to have restored power to one million homes; but, with temperatures potentially reaching 106 degrees, individuals without access to power and those who work outside have a higher risk of developing heat-related illnesses.
Increase of Burns on Pavements in Las Vegas
With Tuesday’s predicted temperature of 114 degrees, pavement burns in Las Vegas are projected to grow significantly. With pavement temperatures as high as 170 degrees, the University Medical Center burn care staff has witnessed a sharp increase in cases.
Problems with the New York Bridge
Overheating machinery caused the Third Avenue Bridge, which connects the Bronx and Manhattan, to jam up, stopping traffic for many hours. By misting water on the hydraulics, Fire Department marine units attempted to cool down the bridge and eventually get it back in working order.
Keep Yourself Safe in Severe Heat
As the temperature rises, it’s important to drink plenty of water, find shelter, and limit your time in the sun. To shield yourself and your loved ones from the intense heat, keep an eye out for heat advisories and take the appropriate safety measures.
