A scorching heat wave is currently sweeping the U.S. West Coast, affecting millions of people in states like California, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, and Nevada. This heat wave is caused by a heat dome, which traps warm air beneath a high-pressure system, leading to extreme temperatures.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures are expected to reach between 95 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit in California and Oregon, with Washington state, the Great Basin, and Arizona experiencing high temperatures later in the week. These record-breaking temperatures are part of a trend of increasingly frequent and intense heat waves due to human-induced climate change.
In Redding, California, temperatures have already reached 119 degrees Fahrenheit, which is 20 degrees above average. Death Valley National Park could see temperatures as high as 130 degrees Fahrenheit, breaking previous records. The heat wave is expected to persist throughout the week, affecting millions of people across the West Coast.
In addition to the extreme temperatures, another 37 million people are under heat advisories or watches, indicating that they may experience extreme heat in the coming hours or days. This widespread heat wave is a cause for concern and highlights the urgent need for action to address climate change.
Sascha, a trainee staff writer at Live Science, explains that heat waves like this one are becoming more common and severe due to climate change. She holds a degree in biology and a master’s degree in science communication, and her work has been published in reputable outlets like The Guardian. In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis, baking bread, and exploring second-hand shops for unique finds.
As temperatures continue to rise and heat waves become more frequent, it is essential for individuals and communities to take steps to mitigate the effects of climate change and protect vulnerable populations from extreme heat events. Stay informed, stay safe, and take action to address this pressing issue.
