Death Valley to possibly shatter global heat record.

Nick Dunn July 14, 2023 Current Events and Breaking News

A Deadly and Relentless Heat Wave Sweeps Across the Country

Parts of the country are currently experiencing a persistent and dangerous heat wave. Approximately one third of the nation, spanning from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean, is under heat advisories, watches, and excessive heat warnings.

This heat wave is not just hot, it’s oppressive. The temperature index, which indicates what it feels like outside, has reached as high as 103 to 125 degrees. However, even this range is lower than the actual temperature in Death Valley, California, which is expected to break records this weekend. In 2021, Death Valley set an undisputed record of 129.4 degrees Fahrenheit, but forecasters predict it will reach between 130 and 132 degrees on Sunday.

Texas: Bracing for Triple-Digit Temperatures

Texas is no stranger to scorching heat, and the Lone Star State is grappling with another extremely hot week. With air temperatures in the triple digits, it feels like it’s almost 115 degrees. There is also concern that another power usage record may be broken in the coming days.

Phoenix: A City Struggling to Cool Down

Phoenix has been experiencing oppressive heat throughout the month, with temperatures exceeding 110 degrees every day. There is a possibility of breaking the record for consecutive days of extreme heat next week. While locals are finding relief in water activities, officials are cautioning against hiking due to the extreme temperatures, as it could be between 131 to 140 degrees on the trails. Tragically, a woman recently lost her life while hiking in the Grand Canyon under similar conditions.

A Lethal Threat: Heat-Related Deaths

Scientific American reports that more people die each year from heat-related causes than from tornadoes and hurricanes combined. This highlights the severity and urgency of addressing the dangers posed by extreme heat.

A Marine Heat Wave Hits the Florida Keys

The heat wave is not limited to land; the waters off the Florida Keys are experiencing a marine heat wave. The sea temperature has risen by 10 degrees above normal, reaching a scorching 97 degrees. This rapid increase in water temperature poses a significant threat to marine life, including coral, which could perish if the water remains at these high temperatures. Furthermore, the heightened temperatures on beaches and lakes throughout the state contribute to the likelihood of this year being the hottest on record in Florida.