Temperature Soars: US Heatwave to Affect Millions
The heatwave's impact is expected to be widespread, with the Midwest also experiencing a hot and humid weekend, and extreme heat watches issued for eastern Nebraska, western Iowa, and southern Minnesota, emphasizing the need for a coordinated response to address the growing threat of heatwaves in the US.
A severe heatwave is forecasted to impact millions of people in the US from July 21 to 25, with temperatures expected to reach triple digits in parts of the Midwest and Northeast, attributed to a strong area of high pressure and human-caused climate change.
Climate Central's analysis reveals that climate change has increased the likelihood of this heatwave, making the excessive heat at least three times more likely for nearly 160 million people. The Climate Shift Index levels are forecasted to be 5 across wide swaths of the country, indicating a significant increase in the likelihood of heatwaves. Experts warn that this heatwave is significantly hotter and more dangerous than those of the past, and that climate change is making heatwaves more frequent and intense.
Heat advisories and extreme heat warnings have been issued for a large swath of the US, covering the Southeast and Midwest, with temperatures and humidity expected to soar. The National Weather Service has issued advisories from Florida to Minnesota, with heat indexes reaching up to 115°F in some areas. The Southeast, particularly Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas, is expected to experience extremely hot conditions, with temperatures approaching or exceeding 100°F and heat indexes up to 115°F.
The heatwave is expected to affect over 30 million people, with minimal overnight relief, highlighting the need for individuals to take necessary precautions to stay safe during this period. As climate change continues to impact the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, it is essential for communities to be prepared and take proactive measures to mitigate the effects of these extreme weather events.