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By Anezka Pichrtova
Live News Reporter
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The country's highest level of heat warning has been issued for 33 million people across the Southwest by the National Integrated Heat Health Information System.
California, Texas, Nevada and Arizona are on the verge of experiencing the first major heatwave of the season. The heat is expected to hit hardest in areas east of San Diego and Los Angeles at about 4 p.m. Thursday, with temperatures soaring above 110 degrees. The extreme temperatures are predicted to last until Friday evening.
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Temperatures are forecast to rise above 100 in most areas of California. The worst-hit regions are experiencing up to 30-degree higher temperatures than normal at this time of year. Such an early start of heatwaves could push 2024 to beat last year's mark as the hottest year in recorded history.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued Excessive Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories, saying: "Dangerously hot conditions will continue through Thursday across portions of South Texas, the Southwest U.S., and Central California. Excessive Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories are in effect," via a post on X, formerly Twitter.
Death Valley in California, known as the hottest place on Earth, is projected to reach a scorching 122 on Thursday afternoon. The temperature would break the record for this day set in 2002 and come within 2 degrees of the highest temperature ever recorded in Death Valley this early in the season.
This heatwave highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, a trend that scientists attribute to climate change. The prolonged high temperatures pose significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations.
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"Groups most at risk to heat include, but are not limited to: children, older adults, people experiencing homelessness, people with pre-existing conditions, people with disabilities, indoor and outdoor workers, emergency responders, incarcerated people, low income communities, pregnant people, athletes, and more," the National Integrated Heat Health Information System says on its website.
Vulnerable groups in affected areas should stay in air-conditioned spaces, stay hydrated and schedule errands for early mornings or evenings.
The heat traveled to the U.S. from Mexico, where it has resulted in deaths of 48 people. Government officials in Mexico reported deaths of more than 150 monkeys as a result of the heat.
Current conditions in California and neighboring states will not get better even after sunsets, with some places expecting record-high temperatures during the night. The heat should subside during the weekend.
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