Record-breaking heatwave shifts east as millions of Americans under heat alert

A heatwave that impacted the US west coast over the past week is now moving east into the midwest and south-east, as millions of Americans have been under a heat alert at some point in the past week.

“Numerous near record-tying/breaking high temperatures are possible over the central High Plains and Southeast Sunday, and along much of the East Coast by Monday,” reported the National Weather Service.

Cities on the east coast such as Baltimore and Washington DC will experience temperatures up to 100F (38C) this Tuesday. Temperatures in the west are expected to fall to typical summer averages.

New York City is expected to experience temperatures as high as the mid-90s on Tuesday, with a forecasted heat index between 95-100F (35-38C) from Monday to Wednesday. while some areas around the city could expect heat index of up to 105F (40C).

Over 245 million Americans are expected to experience 90F (32C) temperatures between Sunday and Wednesday this week, with at least 30 million to experience temperatures of 100F (38C) or higher, according to forecasts by AccuWeather.

Daily records in Charlotte and Raleigh, North Carolina, are forecasted to possibly face record-breaking temperatures. St Louis, Missouri, is anticipating temperatures near or above 100F (38C) through Monday.

“Keep in mind that the elderly, small children, people on medication, or with weight or alcohol problems are most susceptible to heat related stresses,” cautioned the National Weather Service ahead of the heatwave shifting to the east. “This is especially true during a heatwave in areas where a more moderate climate prevails, such as Wisconsin. It’s a good idea to periodically check in with those most susceptible to the heat and help them obtain relief from the extreme heat and humidity.”

June 2024 was the hottest month of June on record and the 13th consecutive hottest month on record, with 14.5% of the world’s surface reporting record heat, beating June 2023 by 7.4%.

Las Vegas, Nevada, recorded a record-breaking seven consecutive days of temperatures 115F (46C) or higher this past week, and recorded its all-time highest temperature of 120F (49C) on 7 July.

Some 37 heat-related deaths in the US have been reported so far in July 2024, which is likely an underestimate due to the time it takes for investigations into deaths to be completed.