A large “heat dome” is expected to cause temperatures on the West Coast to reach triple digits for the first time this year. This could result in more wildfires and pose potentially life-threatening conditions.
Over 10 million individuals residing in California, Nevada, and Arizona will experience the effects of the phenomenon, which is anticipated to bring hazardous heat throughout the week.
According to the National Weather Service, the risk of heat-related impacts will reach an “extreme” level in certain regions of all three states by Thursday.
The forecaster warns that this extreme heat, which is rare and can last for a long duration, can have severe impacts on individuals who do not have access to efficient cooling and hydration. The effects are expected to be felt across various sectors such as health systems, heat-sensitive industries, and infrastructure.
A “heat dome” is responsible for creating such extreme weather conditions. This phenomenon occurs when a vast region experiences high pressure, which traps hot air and intensifies the heat due to prolonged exposure to sunshine. The longer the heat dome lasts, the more intense the heat becomes.
Extended exposure to high temperatures can pose a significant health risk, including heat stroke, dizziness, and sunburn. The elderly population, aged 65 and above, are particularly vulnerable to the heat-related illnesses.
By Thursday, Death Valley in California, which is known as the hottest place on earth, is expected to hit 120F. While the region has experienced even higher temperatures, it’s unusual for such extreme heat to arrive so early in the year.
Shoshone, along with other nearby areas in the Golden State, is expected to experience scorching temperatures reaching up to 119F.
Las Vegas is set to experience scorching temperatures in the coming days, with forecasts predicting a high of 108F on Wednesday, 111F on Thursday, and 110F on Friday. These temperatures are expected to surpass previous record highs for each day, making it an exceptionally hot week in the city.
Over the weekend, the Corral Fire engulfed over 14,000 acres of land in San Joaquin County after it started south of Tracy, California. The residents in the area were instructed to evacuate as a precautionary measure.
By Monday morning, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection reported that firefighters had gained an advantage as the winds had eased, resulting in the blaze being 75 percent contained.
Although evacuation orders have been downgraded to warnings, county officials are still advising residents to remain watchful and prepared to evacuate immediately if needed.
Last week, there were smaller fires in the Los Padres National Park in Santa Barbara County, which were followed by this recent one.
The US was hit by scorching heatwaves last year, which affected more than 113 million Americans, prompting heat warnings at their peaks.
For 13 consecutive days in July, Phoenix has experienced scorching temperatures of up to 110F. As a result, officials have advised residents to minimize outdoor activities and remain vigilant for any symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Residents of California’s Central Valley, as well as the Mojave and Sonoran desert regions, have been cautioned to brace themselves for an intense heat wave. Additionally, Nevada is also expected to experience extreme temperatures.
