In 2023, around 180 million Americans faced high temperatures during the summer months, triggering a series of alerts from authorities regarding the public health risk. Now, in 2024, with the approach of this season, specialists are already warning of a similar scenario that could be repeated in various parts of the United States.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the forecast for the months of May, June and July indicates that high temperatures will once again affect about 20 states, including Washington, Texas, Colorado and much of the Northeast. from the country. Only a small portion of Alaska in the southwest is likely to experience below-normal weather.
The change towards heat is already being evident in these first days of May, with the states on the east coast being the first to feel the arrival of high temperatures. Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Michigan are some of the states already experiencing rising temperatures.
Meanwhile, on the west coast, some regions still require warm clothing, as temperatures have not risen as much as in the east. However, the arrival of heat does not exclude the possibility of rain, which is expected to occur with greater probability in the southeast of the country.
Last year, an unprecedented heat wave hit the southwestern US, especially in July. Extremely high temperatures persisted in the region for more than 3 weeks, wreaking havoc on air travel and contributing to a rise in heat-related deaths.
The desert southwest is known for its high temperatures, but their duration last year far exceeded previous records. As of July 26 of last year, Phoenix had experienced 27 days with high temperatures above 110°F (43°C), breaking the previous record of 18 days in a row set in 1974. Meanwhile, El Paso, Texas , endured temperatures of 38°C (100°F) or higher for 42 consecutive days, which was 19 days longer than its previous record set in 1994.
Heat waves not only pose a risk to the health of the population, but also have significant impacts on infrastructure and the economy. Air travel is delayed, roads are deformed, and demand for electricity skyrockets with the massive use of air conditioning.
It is essential that authorities take measures to protect the population during these extreme conditions. Opening special shelters, disseminating information on how to stay safe during extreme heat, and monitoring the most vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and young children, are important steps to mitigate risks.
Furthermore, it is crucial to address the underlying causes of rising extreme temperatures. Climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as heat waves. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and taking adaptation measures are essential to address this growing threat to public health and national security.
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