“Extreme Heatwave Sweeps Across Texas and Southwest United States: National Weather Service Report”

The National Weather Service’s HeatRisk map shows heat-related impacts to occur over a 24-hour period, as of 8:47 a.m. ET on Aug. 23, 2024. According to Heat.gov, a heat dome over Texas and the southwestern United States is causing extreme temperatures for more than 23 million people, leading to heat advisories and warnings.

The National Weather Service has predicted that the extreme temperatures will continue through the end of the week, with record or near-record temperatures in parts of New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas. The weather service has issued warnings for hazardous heat across Texas and the Gulf Coast, with temperatures reaching triple digits.

Heat domes, caused by high pressure systems, trap heat over a region and prevent cool air from penetrating, leading to prolonged periods of high temperatures. In addition to the extreme heat, thunderstorms and heavy rain are projected for parts of northern Arizona, northwestern New Mexico, southwestern Colorado, and southeastern Utah. The heavy rain may result in localized flash flooding in vulnerable areas.

The dry heat and vegetation in Texas are also creating wildfire conditions, prompting Governor Greg Abbott to urge residents to take necessary precautions to prevent wildfires. The excessive heat is also putting strain on the Texas electrical grid, with millions of customers using air conditioning to combat the sweltering conditions.

In Phoenix, temperatures reached 112 degrees Fahrenheit, just one degree shy of breaking a record. It is recommended that individuals stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, wear light-colored clothing, and use sunscreen to protect against the heat. Outdoor workers are advised to limit their work to the early or late hours of the day to avoid the hottest temperatures.

The World Health Organization has warned that heatwaves and prolonged heat conditions are increasing in frequency and intensity due to climate change, impacting vulnerable populations. Some states, including Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, have set up cooling centers to help residents cope with the extreme heat.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, roughly 1,220 people in the country are killed by extreme heat each year. It is important for individuals to take precautions during heatwaves to protect their health and well-being.