Heat Wave Grips U.S. East Coast with Triple-Digit Temperatures

On Monday, the East Coast will see triple-digit temperatures as a long-running heat wave continues. After a weekend of record-breaking heat in the West, Fatality Valley saw a heartbreaking fatality.

Copernicus reported that June global temperatures were the highest ever for the 13th straight month, prompting the U.S. heat wave. For 12 months, the planet has been 1.5 degrees Celsius warmer than pre-industrial times.

Meteorologist Bryan Jackson says 36 million people, or 10% of the population, are under the National Weather Service’s maximum heat warning. West and Pacific Northwest areas have set or broken heat records.

Death Valley National Park reached 128°F on Saturday and Sunday. A biker died and another was hospitalized in Las Vegas from heat illness. In temperatures above 120°F, emergency medical helicopters cannot fly safely, hence they did not respond.

“We encourage visitors to choose their activities carefully, avoiding prolonged periods outside of an air-conditioned vehicle or building when temperatures are this high,” said Park Superintendent Mike Reynolds.

On Sunday, Las Vegas recorded 120°F while Salem, Oregon hit 103°F, breaking the 1960 record of 99°F. On Sunday, East Coast temperatures were above 100°F, but no excessive heat advisories were issued.

The National Weather Service encouraged citizens to stay hydrated, stay in air-conditioned rooms, avoid the sun, and check on family and neighbors. No one should leave children or pets in cars.

Even in the mountains, Lake Tahoe has serious heat danger alerts. Midweek temperatures at Furnace Creek, California, might reach 130°F. Officially, the greatest temperature on Earth was 134°F in Death Valley in July 1913, however some experts say it was 130°F in July 2021.