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A dangerous heat wave is sweeping through central and southern United States, with temperatures exceeding 100 °F (37 °C) and setting historical records in Florida, as warned the National Weather Service (NWS).
The agency has issued "extreme heat" alerts in several states, warned that the high temperatures will persist without nighttime relief, which increases the risk to public health.
The NWS predicts that the phenomenon, caused by an area of high atmospheric pressure, will extend the heat wave throughout the central and eastern parts of the country, breaking daily temperature records, especially in Florida, where maximum temperatures will reach 100 °F (37 °C), according to the agency EFE.
Tampa issues its first extreme heat alert
In Florida, authorities issued a heat advisory for the city of Tampa for the first time in history, which exceeded 100 °F for the first time since weather records began. "This is an unprecedented situation that requires immediate precautionary measures," warned the local City Hall.
In total, more than 150 million people live in areas where heat warnings have been issued, affecting states such as Kentucky, Nebraska, Iowa, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Mississippi.
More frequent and intense heatwaves
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), cited by EFE, heatwaves in the U.S. during the 2020s are the most frequent and intense on record, with an average of six episodes per year and an average duration of four days, in contrast to the two annual heatwaves of the 1960s, which used to last only three days.
The impact of these extreme temperatures is becoming increasingly evident: in 2023, 2,325 heat-related deaths were reported, marking the fourth consecutive annual record, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) last August.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Extreme Heat Wave in the United States
What are the areas most affected by the heatwave in the United States?
The heat wave is mainly affecting the central and southern United States, with alerts activated in states such as Florida, Kentucky, Nebraska, Iowa, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Mississippi. Florida is one of the most affected states, with historical temperature records set in cities like Tampa.
What temperature records have been recorded during this heatwave?
During this heatwave, Tampa, Florida, reached a temperature of 100 °F (37.8 °C) for the first time in its history. This record not only marks the absolute temperature high for the city but also breaks previous daily and monthly records.
What precautions are recommended for extreme heat?
In the face of extreme heat, authorities recommend staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, and seeking shelter in air-conditioned or shaded places. Additionally, it is advised to pay special attention to children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses, who are more vulnerable to the heat.
Why are heat waves becoming more frequent in the United States?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), heatwaves in the U.S. during the 2020s are occurring more frequently and with greater intensity due to climate change. The rise in global temperatures has increased the frequency and duration of these extreme climatic events.
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