A dangerous heat dome is set to hit the Southwest region of the United States this Tuesday, affecting over 25 million Americans and prompting a heat alert issued by the National Weather Service. The heat dome, a natural phenomenon that occurs when hot air is trapped in a region, is expected to impact central California, southern Nevada, and western Arizona.
Temperatures are predicted to be around 20 degrees above normal during this heat wave, as reported by Fox Weather Center. This intense heat is anticipated to last until Thursday, with cities such as Las Vegas and Phoenix experiencing extreme temperatures of 111 degrees – much higher than what they typically experience in late summer.
Level 4 heat advisories have been issued for parts of the Las Vegas metro area, warning residents about the severe health impacts that can occur from extended exposure to this intense heat, including death. Fresno, CA, is also expected to face triple-digit temperatures by Friday, even as the heat dome dissipates in the region.
The impact of this heat wave may last through the weekend, according to Fox Weather Center. Unfortunately, experts are warning that nighttime will offer little relief from the scorching heat, making it difficult for residents to cool down even after sunset.
In addition to California, heat advisories have been issued in parts of Utah, New Mexico, and Texas. National Weather Service meteorologists are urging residents in these areas to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Last year, more than 2,300 people died due to the effects of excessive heat across the United States, according to an analysis by the Associated Press using CDC data. This marked the highest number of heat-related deaths in the past 45 years of recordkeeping.
