US Heatwave Continues Across Multiple States With Millions Still Under Heat Warnings
A severe US heatwave continues to grip huge swathes of the country with hazardous temperatures, suffocating humidity and little overnight reprieve. More than 100 million people were under heat advisories on Sunday, and at least 40 million were still under extreme heat warnings Monday as the most intense conditions moved throughout the central and southern United States. The extended occurrence has repercussions on everyday life, outdoor work, travel and public health in several places.
Millions Under Heat Warnings In US
Heat warnings remain in effect across parts of the Upper Midwest and Great Plains into the Mississippi Valley, Gulf Coast and parts of the West. The most dangerous conditions come with a sprawling heat dome, a high-pressure weather pattern that traps hot air and allows temperatures to build over multiple days.
Communities from Minnesota to Mississippi are at considerable risk of heat, and temperatures in the triple digits have also been seen in California, Nevada and other parts of the West. Some areas may see a little respite from storms or passing fronts, but the larger pattern of heat is likely to remain a worry.
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But real temperatures are only part of the threat. MANY STATES seeing heat index ratings considerably above the reported air temperature due to high humidity.
The National Weather Service said heat index values would be near 110 degrees Fahrenheit in central and west-central Illinois. Conditions will be dangerous for anyone spending extended amounts of time outside with probable heat index values of 110°F to 118°F in sections of Kansas.
Some parts of eastern Iowa and north-east Missouri were forecast to feel as hot as 110°F to 115°F. The risk is being compounded by warm evenings since homes, streets and the human body have less time to chill down before temperatures heat up again the next day.
Cities Experience Record, Near-Record Temperatures
Temperatures in several cities have hit or exceeded record daily levels. Forecasts predicted triple-digit highs for at least seven major cities, including Rapid City, S.D., which hit 112 degrees during the heatwave.
Outdoor events have been cancelled and emergency services are under strain due to the harsh weather conditions. Cooling centres are being promoted and citizens are being urged to avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the afternoon by the local authorities.
Outdoor workers may need additional rest intervals, access to shade and regular water. Employers should also adjust schedules when possible to limit prolonged exposure.
Extended heat presents health risks
Headaches, nausea, dizziness, weakness, thirst and profuse sweating are symptoms of heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can cause confusion, loss of consciousness or dangerously high body temperature. Anyone with severe symptoms requires immediate medical attention.
Not everyone is at the same risk. Older adults, babies and children, pregnant people, outdoor workers, persons with impairments, people with underlying health conditions, and people without secure housing or adequate conditioning may be more at risk.
Checking on neighbours, family and people of the community can prevent catastrophic health emergency.
Staying Healthy
People in the impacted states should drink water regularly, minimise unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight and shift hard work to the cooler portions of the day. Light clothing, chilly showers, and air conditioned public locations also can alleviate heat discomfort.
People without air conditioning at home should travel to a cooling centre, library, shopping complex or community building, Ready.gov recommends. Never leave children, adults or pets in parked automobiles, even for a minute, as temperatures can become lethal in a matter of minutes.
Warning regions and expected temperatures can change rapidly, so residents are encouraged to keep checking National Weather Service advisories. A cold front could bring some relief to parts of the Midwest, but deadly heat could linger across sections of the South and central United States.
Sources
- Associated Press: Dangerous conditions spread across central and southern states, with at least 40 million people under extreme heat warnings.
- ABC News: Over 100 million people were under heat alerts as a few major cities were expected to reach triple-digit temperatures.
- National Weather Service: Some areas in Illinois could see heat index values near 110°F while Kansas could see values as high as 118°F.
- CDC: Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, weakness, thirst, headaches and heavy perspiration.
- Ready.gov: Those without air conditioning should travel to cooling centres or air-conditioned public facilities. Never leave persons or pets in parked automobiles.
