Forecasters predict numerous record-breaking temperatures in the West, with some regions already surpassing them. The National Weather Service in Las Vegas projects that Thursday will be the warmest day of the heat wave in most regions, and the weekend will see temperatures 10 to 15 degrees above normal.
On Monday, the National Weather Service issued warnings about severe heat waves in regions of California, Nevada, and Arizona. On Thursday, they extended the heat warning for certain areas until Saturday.
Related posts
This Article Includes
The NWS HeatRisk map, which monitors extreme temperatures, considers how unusual the heat is for the time of year, how long it will stay, and whether there is a higher risk of health consequences. The chart illustrates that several areas are experiencing “major” or “extreme” heat levels this week, which means that temperatures are significantly higher than typical.
Las Vegas and Death Valley are in the extreme category, which means there will be little to no nighttime reprieve, and the heat may have an impact on health. In the Southwest, Bracketville, Texas, near the state’s western border with Mexico, falls into the extreme category.
Record-breaking temperatures in the West
According to Weather Underground, Las Vegas was already experiencing a scorching 100-degree temperature in the early hours of Thursday morning. This is approximately 4 degrees higher than the historic daily average.
This week, daily records are being broken or are expected to be broken in places like Bishop, California, Kingman, Arizona, and Death Valley in California.
Visitors to Death Valley National Park are being advised by park officials to be cautious of the extreme heat, as temperatures can soar up to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Walking around the park after 10 a.m. is not recommended to avoid the risk of heat-related illnesses. It’s essential to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions when exploring this beautiful yet challenging landscape.
According to NWS Phoenix, Thursday was set to be the hottest day of the year in Phoenix, with temperatures reaching 110 degrees or higher in areas near the desert for the first time in 2024. Even in the morning, the low temperature was already at 85 degrees, which is 9 degrees above the normal temperature for this time of year.
During the heat wave, several counties in Arizona have received fire warnings from the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. They have advised the public to refrain from activities such as lighting camp fires, target shooting, and setting off fireworks to prevent wildfires.
According to CBS Los Angeles, California is now in the second phase of its Extreme Temperature Response Plan. This phase involves an increase in safety coordination between local and state agencies, which is triggered by predictions of extreme weather made by the NWS.
According to NWS, the heat wave could result in the Central Valley experiencing temperatures of up to 105ยฐF degrees. Meanwhile, Death Valley National Park could see temperatures ranging between 118 to 121 degrees.
Keeping safe in a heat wave
During a heat wave, it is essential to take preventive measures to avoid heat-related illnesses. The National Weather Service (NWS) recommends slowing down and rescheduling strenuous activities to cooler parts of the day and areas. Additionally, it is advisable to dress appropriately for the weather, avoid direct sunlight, eat light meals, and stay hydrated to maintain good health.
According to NWS, spending time in air conditioning can be beneficial in hot weather. However, if the temperature is over 90 degrees and you have a fan, it is not recommended to point it directly at your body. This is because the dry air from the fan can cause faster dehydration.
According to the CDC, heat-related illnesses encompass both heat stroke, which can result in confusion or loss of consciousness, and heat exhaustion, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, headaches, thirst, and heavy sweating.
In the event of either of these illnesses, immediate action is crucial. For heat stroke, it’s important to quickly cool down the affected person by moving them into the shade or a cooler area, removing their clothes, and wetting their skin. Don’t hesitate to call 911 for assistance.
If someone is experiencing heat exhaustion, it’s important to take immediate action. This condition occurs when the body loses too much water and salt through excessive sweating, and it can particularly affect the elderly, people with high blood pressure, or those who work outside. To help them, move the person to a cooler area, provide them with fluids to rehydrate, and try to cool their skin by removing their clothing and using a cold compress.
