A brutal heatwave is sweeping across Europe, shattering all-time temperature records and raising urgent environmental alarms. Switzerland has officially recorded its highest temperatures in history, while neighboring Germany and France brace for even more extreme conditions in the coming days.


Europe Heatwave: Swiss Temperature Record Falls, Germany Braces for Worse

The UK's Royal Life Saving Society UK on Wednesday (May 27) issued urgent water safety warnings after nine people died in seas, rivers, and lakes during days of record-breaking heat. Tuesday (May 26) marked the hottest May day ever recorded in England and Wales, with temperatures reaching 35.1 °C at Kew Gardens near London. Seven of the nine reported water-related deaths in England and Wales since Sunday involved teenagers or young children.&nbsp;The RLSS warned that in the UK, when air temperatures reach 25 °C, there is a fivefold accidental drowning risk, and teenagers and young adults are proportionately more likely to lose their lives. The National Water Safety Forum said on Wednesday that periods of hot weather often correlate with a rise in accidental drownings. The charity added that inland waterways in the UK have accounted for more than half of accidental drowning deaths since 2019 because the water often stays dangerously cold all year round.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ready-to-resume-military-action-if-iran-peace-negotiations-fail-says-pete-hegseth-1779907588337">US ready to resume military action if Iran peace negotiations fail, says Pete Hegseth</a>&nbsp;Police in northwestern England said a 17-year-old boy drowned in a lake in Cheshire on Tuesday, while a 12-year-old boy died after getting into difficulty in a river in Lancashire. Local media also reported that a teenager’s body was discovered on Wednesday in a lake in Hampshire, southern England. The recent deaths follow four earlier drowning incidents involving teenagers across England since Sunday. In Lincolnshire, a 15-year-old boy drowned on Sunday, according to police.&nbsp;The victim’s father, identified as Declan Sawyer, warned families about the dangers of children playing near any rivers and lakes in the hot weather. Police said a teenage girl also died on Monday after being pulled from the water at a water park in Warwickshire, central England. In Yorkshire, one boy drowned in a reservoir on Monday, while the body of a 13-year-old boy was recovered on Tuesday morning from a country park.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-floods-euphrates-river-swell-after-heavy-rainfall-1779869743004/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-floods-euphrates-river-swell-after-heavy-rainfall-1779869743004/embed</a>&nbsp;Two older adults also died during the heatwave. In Cornwall, a man in his 60s suffered a cardiac arrest while attempting to help family members in the sea on Monday. In Wales, a 72-year-old woman was pulled from the sea on Sunday and died at the scene, according to local police.

The UK issues urgent water safety warnings after nine drowning deaths during a record-breaking heatwave. Most victims were teenagers and children

The UK's Royal Life Saving Society UK on Wednesday (May 27) issued urgent water safety warnings after nine people died in seas, rivers, and lakes during days of record-breaking heat. Tuesday (May 26) marked the hottest May day ever recorded in England and Wales, with temperatures reaching 35.1 °C at Kew Gardens near London. Seven of the nine reported water-related deaths in England and Wales since Sunday involved teenagers or young children. The RLSS warned that in the UK, when air temperatures reach 25 °C, there is a fivefold accidental drowning risk, and teenagers and young adults are proportionately more likely to lose their lives. The National Water Safety Forum said on Wednesday that periods of hot weather often correlate with a rise in accidental drownings. The charity added that inland waterways in the UK have accounted for more than half of accidental drowning deaths since 2019 because the water often stays dangerously cold all year round. Also Read: US ready to resume military action if Iran peace negotiations fail, says Pete Hegseth Police in northwestern England said a 17-year-old boy drowned in a lake in Cheshire on Tuesday, while a 12-year-old boy died after getting into difficulty in a river in Lancashire. Local media also reported that a teenager’s body was discovered on Wednesday in a lake in Hampshire, southern England. The recent deaths follow four earlier drowning incidents involving teenagers across England since Sunday. In Lincolnshire, a 15-year-old boy drowned on Sunday, according to police. The victim’s father, identified as Declan Sawyer, warned families about the dangers of children playing near any rivers and lakes in the hot weather. Police said a teenage girl also died on Monday after being pulled from the water at a water park in Warwickshire, central England. In Yorkshire, one boy drowned in a reservoir on Monday, while the body of a 13-year-old boy was recovered on Tuesday morning from a country park. https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-floods-euphrates-river-swell-after-heavy-rainfall-1779869743004/embed Two older adults also died during the heatwave. In Cornwall, a man in his 60s suffered a cardiac arrest while attempting to help family members in the sea on Monday. In Wales, a 72-year-old woman was pulled from the sea on Sunday and died at the scene, according to local police.

UK heatwave sparks drowning warnings after nine deaths in rivers, lakes, and seas, with most victims being teenagers and children

UK heatwave triggers water safety alert after nine drowning deaths as temperature hits record highs

A powerful heatwave swept across Europe on Monday (May 25), with Britain, Ireland, and France recording unprecedented temperatures for May as meteorologists warned that the scorching conditions could persist throughout the week. The unusually intense heat has been driven by a ‘heat dome’, a mass of hot air moving from northern Africa and trapped beneath a high-pressure system over western Europe. Temperatures in parts of Spain are forecast to reach 38 °C later this week, while Italy has already imposed restrictions on outdoor work in several regions.&nbsp;In the United Kingdom, the Met Office confirmed the hottest May day ever recorded, with temperatures soaring to 34.8 °C at Kew Gardens in southwest London, surpassing the previous record by nearly two degrees. “This heat would be exceptional in the UK even in mid-summer, let alone May,” the Met Office said on X. Residents and tourists struggled to cope with the unusual conditions in London, where temperatures at this time of year usually hover around 17C to 18C. “The weather here is like a mini version of hell. It's boiling. It's like really hot,” said 10-year-old Liza Nizari during a visit to the British capital.&nbsp;Climate scientists have repeatedly warned that human-driven climate change is intensifying extreme weather events, including heatwaves, droughts, and floods, leading to temperature records being broken more frequently. Met Office meteorologist Greg Dewhurst described the soaring temperatures as a good indication of climate change in action and said such heat could increasingly become the new norm.&nbsp;The warning comes days after UK climate advisers said the country was built for a climate that no longer exists and urged authorities to adapt infrastructure such as schools and hospitals for rising temperatures. Britain had already crossed the 40 °C mark for the first time in recorded history during the summer of 2022. Ireland also registered its hottest May conditions on record, with temperatures reaching 28.8 °C in Killarney and Clonmel, according to Met Eireann. In Scotland, a grass fire erupted near Arthur’s Seat hill in Edinburgh as temperatures climbed to 25 °C, with smoke spreading across the city.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-launches-self-defense-strikes-on-iranian-missile-launch-sites-boats-near-strait-of-hormuz-amid-ceasefire-talks-1779752969864">US launches ‘self-defense strikes’ on Iranian missile launch sites, boats near Strait of Hormuz amid ceasefire talks</a><h2>France is on heatwave alert</h2>Across the English Channel, Meteo-France said dozens of temperature records were shattered in several French cities, prompting heatwave alerts in eight western regions. The agency warned that the exceptionally hot weather could continue until the weekend. The southwestern town of Bergerac recorded 34.7 °C on Monday, while Nantes and Angers also experienced unusually high temperatures. On Tuesday, large parts of Brittany were expected to see temperatures between 32C and 35C, with some southern regions potentially touching 37C, according to Meteo-France.&nbsp;French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is expected to chair a meeting with senior ministers on Thursday to review the government’s preparedness for the ongoing heatwave. Paris had already crossed the 30 °C mark for the first time this year on Saturday, reaching 31.9 °C. The heat also raised safety concerns during sporting events. Authorities said one man died during a 10-kilometre race in Paris on Sunday, while 10 others were hospitalised in critical condition following another race in Maisons-Alfort.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tech-giants-opt-for-massive-layoffs-amid-growing-ai-cost-crisis-1779736532680/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/tech-giants-opt-for-massive-layoffs-amid-growing-ai-cost-crisis-1779736532680/embed</a><h2>Outdoor work restrictions in Italy</h2>Spain’s State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) warned that the extraordinarily high temperatures for this time of year would continue throughout the week across most of the country, except the Canary Islands. Authorities also forecast widespread tropical nights in southwestern Spain from Wednesday onward, with peak temperatures between 36C and 38C expected later in the week.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Italy’s Lazio region, which includes Rome, approved emergency regulations limiting outdoor work between 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm in sectors involving prolonged exposure to the sun, such as farming, construction, and logistics. The measures will remain in force until September 15, extending similar restrictions introduced during last year’s summer heatwave.

Europe faces an unprecedented May heatwave as Britain, France, and Ireland record historic temperatures. Experts warn that climate change is driving extreme weather across the continent

A powerful heatwave swept across Europe on Monday (May 25), with Britain, Ireland, and France recording unprecedented temperatures for May as meteorologists warned that the scorching conditions could persist throughout the week. The unusually intense heat has been driven by a ‘heat dome’, a mass of hot air moving from northern Africa and trapped beneath a high-pressure system over western Europe. Temperatures in parts of Spain are forecast to reach 38 °C later this week, while Italy has already imposed restrictions on outdoor work in several regions. In the United Kingdom, the Met Office confirmed the hottest May day ever recorded, with temperatures soaring to 34.8 °C at Kew Gardens in southwest London, surpassing the previous record by nearly two degrees. “This heat would be exceptional in the UK even in mid-summer, let alone May,” the Met Office said on X. Residents and tourists struggled to cope with the unusual conditions in London, where temperatures at this time of year usually hover around 17C to 18C. “The weather here is like a mini version of hell. It's boiling. It's like really hot,” said 10-year-old Liza Nizari during a visit to the British capital. Climate scientists have repeatedly warned that human-driven climate change is intensifying extreme weather events, including heatwaves, droughts, and floods, leading to temperature records being broken more frequently. Met Office meteorologist Greg Dewhurst described the soaring temperatures as a good indication of climate change in action and said such heat could increasingly become the new norm. The warning comes days after UK climate advisers said the country was built for a climate that no longer exists and urged authorities to adapt infrastructure such as schools and hospitals for rising temperatures. Britain had already crossed the 40 °C mark for the first time in recorded history during the summer of 2022. Ireland also registered its hottest May conditions on record, with temperatures reaching 28.8 °C in Killarney and Clonmel, according to Met Eireann. In Scotland, a grass fire erupted near Arthur’s Seat hill in Edinburgh as temperatures climbed to 25 °C, with smoke spreading across the city. Also Read: US launches ‘self-defense strikes’ on Iranian missile launch sites, boats near Strait of Hormuz amid ceasefire talks France is on heatwave alert Across the English Channel, Meteo-France said dozens of temperature records were shattered in several French cities, prompting heatwave alerts in eight western regions. The agency warned that the exceptionally hot weather could continue until the weekend. The southwestern town of Bergerac recorded 34.7 °C on Monday, while Nantes and Angers also experienced unusually high temperatures. On Tuesday, large parts of Brittany were expected to see temperatures between 32C and 35C, with some southern regions potentially touching 37C, according to Meteo-France. French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is expected to chair a meeting with senior ministers on Thursday to review the government’s preparedness for the ongoing heatwave. Paris had already crossed the 30 °C mark for the first time this year on Saturday, reaching 31.9 °C. The heat also raised safety concerns during sporting events. Authorities said one man died during a 10-kilometre race in Paris on Sunday, while 10 others were hospitalised in critical condition following another race in Maisons-Alfort. https://www.wionews.com/videos/tech-giants-opt-for-massive-layoffs-amid-growing-ai-cost-crisis-1779736532680/embed Outdoor work restrictions in Italy Spain’s State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) warned that the extraordinarily high temperatures for this time of year would continue throughout the week across most of the country, except the Canary Islands. Authorities also forecast widespread tropical nights in southwestern Spain from Wednesday onward, with peak temperatures between 36C and 38C expected later in the week. Meanwhile, Italy’s Lazio region, which includes Rome, approved emergency regulations limiting outdoor work between 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm in sectors involving prolonged exposure to the sun, such as farming, construction, and logistics. The measures will remain in force until September 15, extending similar restrictions introduced during last year’s summer heatwave.

Europe reels under record May heatwave as the United Kingdom, France, and Ireland break temperature records amid growing climate change fears

'Mini version of hell': Heat dome scorches Europe as UK, France shatter temperature records

A heat dome is swirling over the eastern part of the US, warned meteorologists. More than 70 million people are at risk of facing intense heat and potential record-breaking temperatures. According to the forecast by the National Weather Service, a branch of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the number of people affected will be 90 million by July 25.. The meteorological department has attributed the miserable heat condition to a phenomenon called the heat dome.<h2>What is a heat dome?</h2>A heat dome is a weather pattern when a high-pressure system traps hot air in a place, like a lid on a pot. This causes the temperature to increase drastically while suppressing cloud formation and heat. Thus leading to an intense period of heat and humidity. The current period of heat is estimated over the Midwest and Southeast United States at 115°F or higher in some cities.<h2>Which US cities are affected by the current heat dome?</h2>According to the Heat Advisory, more than 160 million Americans are at risk of excessive heat. The most intense being Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Indiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia, Alabama, the Carolinas, and Virginia. The southeast region is at most risk with the heat dome centred over Memphis, Tennessee. Cities like Baltimore and Inn Harbour have already faced their highest temperature for the month, St. Louis, Chicago, Memphis, Des Moines, and Louisville are recording in the range of 105-115 degrees.&nbsp;In the corn belt areas with huge corn fields are releasing massive amounts of water which are creating a humid room of steam known as ‘corn sweat’, raising the heat index outside of the thermometer's measurement.&nbsp;<h2>How long will the extreme heat last in the eastern US?</h2>According to meteorologists, this is likely to last till the end of July. The temperature will remain dangerously high across the Southwest and the Midwest. There is another disturbing pattern around the border of the heat dome, also known as the ring of fire. Moist air at the perimeter of the ring of fire is creating thunderstorms and flash floods, especially in Appalachia, the Ohio Valley, and parts of the Southeast.<h2>Is global warming behind the frequent heat domes in the US?</h2>According to Climate Central’s Climate Shift Index, human-induced climate change has made the occurrence of the dome 3-5 times more likely. What is more disturbing is the trend of 'wet heat', which is heat with humidity, as it is particularly disturbing for the body's cooling mechanism. These increased frequency and intensity of heat waves are most likely to lead to infrastructure strain, such as energy grids and transportation systems, as well as increase the risk of heat-related illness among the public.&nbsp;<h2> &nbsp;</h2>

A major heat dome is lingering over the eastern part of the US, which will be affecting at least 90 million people with miserable heat, followed by instances of thunderstorms and flash floods. Know all about the heat dome, which cities to be affected and why it is a recurring phenomenon.

A heat dome is swirling over the eastern part of the US, warned meteorologists. More than 70 million people are at risk of facing intense heat and potential record-breaking temperatures. According to the forecast by the National Weather Service, a branch of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the number of people affected will be 90 million by July 25.. The meteorological department has attributed the miserable heat condition to a phenomenon called the heat dome. What is a heat dome? A heat dome is a weather pattern when a high-pressure system traps hot air in a place, like a lid on a pot. This causes the temperature to increase drastically while suppressing cloud formation and heat. Thus leading to an intense period of heat and humidity. The current period of heat is estimated over the Midwest and Southeast United States at 115°F or higher in some cities. Which US cities are affected by the current heat dome? According to the Heat Advisory, more than 160 million Americans are at risk of excessive heat. The most intense being Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Indiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia, Alabama, the Carolinas, and Virginia. The southeast region is at most risk with the heat dome centred over Memphis, Tennessee. Cities like Baltimore and Inn Harbour have already faced their highest temperature for the month, St. Louis, Chicago, Memphis, Des Moines, and Louisville are recording in the range of 105-115 degrees. In the corn belt areas with huge corn fields are releasing massive amounts of water which are creating a humid room of steam known as ‘corn sweat’, raising the heat index outside of the thermometer's measurement. How long will the extreme heat last in the eastern US? According to meteorologists, this is likely to last till the end of July. The temperature will remain dangerously high across the Southwest and the Midwest. There is another disturbing pattern around the border of the heat dome, also known as the ring of fire. Moist air at the perimeter of the ring of fire is creating thunderstorms and flash floods, especially in Appalachia, the Ohio Valley, and parts of the Southeast. Is global warming behind the frequent heat domes in the US? According to Climate Central’s Climate Shift Index, human-induced climate change has made the occurrence of the dome 3-5 times more likely. What is more disturbing is the trend of 'wet heat', which is heat with humidity, as it is particularly disturbing for the body's cooling mechanism. These increased frequency and intensity of heat waves are most likely to lead to infrastructure strain, such as energy grids and transportation systems, as well as increase the risk of heat-related illness among the public.

A major heat dome is lingering over the eastern part of the US, which will be affecting at least 90 million people with miserable heat, followed by instances of thunderstorms and flash floods. Know all about the heat dome, which cities to be affected and why it is a recurring phenomenon.

Blistering heat dome smothers US: ‘Corn Sweat’ and climate change drive Midwest into triple-digit chaos?

The second week of a potentially fatal heat dome has put over 60 million Americans, under heat alerts. This weekend, daily records for temperature in the Northeast, Southeast, and West were broken.

The second week of a potentially fatal heat dome has put over 60 million Americans, under heat alerts. This weekend, daily records for temperature in the Northeast, Southeast, and West were broken. For example, the day temperature in Philadelphia was recoirded at 98 degrees, it was 100 degrees in Greenville, Mississippi, and 108 degrees in Merced, California. For the first time in 12 years, temperatures in June reached 100 degrees this past weekend in Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. The Deep South, the West, and the Southeast are all being affected by the deadly heat. A scorching 110 degrees is predicted in Las Vegas and Palm Springs, California, and temperatures of 96 degrees in Atlanta, 94 degrees in New Orleans and Nashville, Tennessee, 100 degrees in Little Rock, Arkansas, 99 degrees in Oklahoma City, 98 degrees in Dallas, 109 degrees in Phoenix, 97 degrees in Salt Lake City, and 96 degrees in New Orleans are predicted. Also read: US prosecutors push for criminal charges against Boeing over 737 Max crash settlement breach – Reports Oklahoma will have the highest chance of heat waves. Because of the mix of scorching afternoons and extremely warm nights, Oklahoma City is at the highest degree of extreme heat danger. What is a heat dome? A heat dome is a meteorological phenomena in which the atmosphere forms a high-pressure region that traps hot air underneath it, much like a pot lid does. The pressure stops the milder weather systems from passing through by forcing air into a hotter, dome-shaped mass. This heat dome intensifies a heat wave by producing extended bursts of uncomfortably high temperatures. In the country's western and southern regions, where temperatures are already high, heat domes are more prevalent. Although heat domes have been building over the US for many years, the term seems to have gained popularity recently. In March 2022, the American Meteorological Society included "heat dome" in its lexicon of words. (With inputs from agencies)

Scorching heat dome shatters records across US, over 60 million under alerts

Over the next week, more than 260 million people will have to cope with extremely high temperatures as the first major heatwave of the summer is predicted to break records in the northeastern United States.

"The duration of this heatwave is notable and potentially the longest experienced in decades for some locations," said the National Weather Service (NWS).

A heat dome is expected to sweep eastward from the Great Lakes towards New England, bringing temperatures as high as 41°C (105°F).

Overnight temperatures are forecast to stay in the mid-20s°C (70s°F), offering little relief.

Heat domes form when atmospheric systems with high pressure linger over a particular region for prolonged periods, trapping warm air underneath them.

The NWS predicts an unusually early heat trap in the coming days, which may last long enough to result in droughts in certain areas.

"The early arrival of this magnitude of heat, the duration, abundant sunshine, and lack of relief overnight will increase the danger of this heatwave beyond what the exact temperature values would suggest," continued the NWS.

Areas at extreme risk include New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Michigan.

Serious health problems may arise for anyone without access to cooling or hydration in these areas.

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Due to the heat island effect caused by the use of heat-retaining materials in the construction of roads and other infrastructure, as well as a lack of cooling vegetation, urban areas are particularly vulnerable to heat extremes.

Experts recommend staying indoors if possible. Drinking plenty of water and resting periodically is strongly advised for people who must go out, as well as vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women.

According to Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association safety director Greg Brooks, "People who are experiencing heat exhaustion generally aren't going to recognize it as heat exhaustion because they get tunnel vision," as reported by The Associated Press.

As heatwaves like this one occur more frequently due to human-induced climate change, the number of heat-related deaths in the US is increasing. Extreme heat events are also becoming more intense and prolonged, increasing the risk of fire.

(With inputs from agencies)

Over the next week, more than 260 million people will have to cope with extremely high temperatures as the first major heatwave of the summer is predicted to break records in the northeastern United States.

Over the next week, more than 260 million people will have to cope with extremely high temperatures as the first major heatwave of the summer is predicted to break records in the northeastern United States. "The duration of this heatwave is notable and potentially the longest experienced in decades for some locations," said the National Weather Service (NWS). A heat dome is expected to sweep eastward from the Great Lakes towards New England, bringing temperatures as high as 41°C (105°F). Overnight temperatures are forecast to stay in the mid-20s°C (70s°F), offering little relief. Heat domes form when atmospheric systems with high pressure linger over a particular region for prolonged periods, trapping warm air underneath them. The NWS predicts an unusually early heat trap in the coming days, which may last long enough to result in droughts in certain areas. "The early arrival of this magnitude of heat, the duration, abundant sunshine, and lack of relief overnight will increase the danger of this heatwave beyond what the exact temperature values would suggest," continued the NWS. Areas at extreme risk include New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Michigan. Serious health problems may arise for anyone without access to cooling or hydration in these areas. Also read: Texas Governor Greg Abbott applauds arrest of state's top illegal migrant Due to the heat island effect caused by the use of heat-retaining materials in the construction of roads and other infrastructure, as well as a lack of cooling vegetation, urban areas are particularly vulnerable to heat extremes. Experts recommend staying indoors if possible. Drinking plenty of water and resting periodically is strongly advised for people who must go out, as well as vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women. According to Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association safety director Greg Brooks, "People who are experiencing heat exhaustion generally aren't going to recognize it as heat exhaustion because they get tunnel vision," as reported by The Associated Press. As heatwaves like this one occur more frequently due to human-induced climate change, the number of heat-related deaths in the US is increasing. Extreme heat events are also becoming more intense and prolonged, increasing the risk of fire. (With inputs from agencies)

Scorching heatwave set to sear northeastern US, break records and spark health concerns

Over 34 million Americans are bracing for extreme heat this week as a "heat dome" settles over the western United States. But what is a heat dome? Here's everything you need to know.

<h2>Heat Dome 101</h2>

To understand what a heat dome is, imagine a giant dome sitting over an area and trapping hot air inside. This results in the generation of heatwaves, which can feel much hotter than usual.&nbsp;

In simple terms, it is one of the meteorological phenomena that happens when a very high-pressure system traps air in a region. This will ultimately lead to extremely high temperatures over an extended period. The trapped heat could result in discomfort, health problems, and even risky conditions, not just for human beings but also for animals and plants.

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<h2>America to sweat it out with 40&nbsp;°C+ heat</h2>

As per BBC, people living in California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona have been alerted and asked to prepare for temperatures crossing nearly 40&nbsp;°C (104&nbsp;°F) by Friday (7th June). The heat will also likely be felt in the Pacific Northwest later in the week.&nbsp;

Temperatures, according to predictions, might peak at 42.2&nbsp;°C (107.96 degree Fahrenheit °F) from Sacramento to Bakersfield in a widespread area of California. Reportedly, Sacramento has already topped 38&nbsp;°C (100.4 degree Fahrenheit °F) this Tuesday (June 4), a mark it didn't reach until the end of June last year. Some places in south Texas sizzled with scorching temperatures of 47.2&nbsp;°C (116.96 °F) on Tuesday.

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The hottest day, as per predictions, is Thursday (June 6), when temperatures are expected to be 5.5-11&nbsp;°C (10-20&nbsp;°F) above average and likely to continue&nbsp;for the rest of the week. Temperature records could be shattered in Phoenix, Las Vegas, Albuquerque, and Fresno.&nbsp;

Heat dome conditions contributed to a dozen deaths last year in the American Southwest.&nbsp;

As per the US Border Patrol in Texas, four migrants trying to enter the US have died over the weekend from heat-related illnesses.

Forecasters have urged residents to drink more liquids, remain in air-conditioned buildings, and wear loose clothing.&nbsp;

The risk was described in stark terms by the National Weather Service in Phoenix, which issued a dire warning: "Heat stroke can be DEADLY," it said in a message on social media Tuesday. The California Environmental Protection Agency has identified outdoor workplaces, older people, and children as the most vulnerable populations during extreme heat conditions, describing it as "an invisible but dangerous consequence of climate change."

(With inputs from agencies)

Over 34 million Americans are bracing for extreme heat this week as a "heat dome" settles over the western United States. But what is a heat dome? Here's everything you need to know.

Over 34 million Americans are bracing for extreme heat this week as a "heat dome" settles over the western United States. But what is a heat dome? Here's everything you need to know. Heat Dome 101 To understand what a heat dome is, imagine a giant dome sitting over an area and trapping hot air inside. This results in the generation of heatwaves, which can feel much hotter than usual. In simple terms, it is one of the meteorological phenomena that happens when a very high-pressure system traps air in a region. This will ultimately lead to extremely high temperatures over an extended period. The trapped heat could result in discomfort, health problems, and even risky conditions, not just for human beings but also for animals and plants. Also read | 'Felon' Donald Trump seeks relief from gag order after historic conviction America to sweat it out with 40 °C+ heat As per BBC, people living in California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona have been alerted and asked to prepare for temperatures crossing nearly 40 °C (104 °F) by Friday (7th June). The heat will also likely be felt in the Pacific Northwest later in the week. Temperatures, according to predictions, might peak at 42.2 °C (107.96 degree Fahrenheit °F) from Sacramento to Bakersfield in a widespread area of California. Reportedly, Sacramento has already topped 38 °C (100.4 degree Fahrenheit °F) this Tuesday (June 4), a mark it didn't reach until the end of June last year. Some places in south Texas sizzled with scorching temperatures of 47.2 °C (116.96 °F) on Tuesday. Also read | Louisiana to become first US state to punish paedophiles with surgical castration The hottest day, as per predictions, is Thursday (June 6), when temperatures are expected to be 5.5-11 °C (10-20 °F) above average and likely to continue for the rest of the week. Temperature records could be shattered in Phoenix, Las Vegas, Albuquerque, and Fresno. Heat dome conditions contributed to a dozen deaths last year in the American Southwest. As per the US Border Patrol in Texas, four migrants trying to enter the US have died over the weekend from heat-related illnesses. Forecasters have urged residents to drink more liquids, remain in air-conditioned buildings, and wear loose clothing. The risk was described in stark terms by the National Weather Service in Phoenix, which issued a dire warning: "Heat stroke can be DEADLY," it said in a message on social media Tuesday. The California Environmental Protection Agency has identified outdoor workplaces, older people, and children as the most vulnerable populations during extreme heat conditions, describing it as "an invisible but dangerous consequence of climate change." (With inputs from agencies)

'Heat dome' grips western US: 34 million Americans brace for record heat. Here's what it means

In Pics | US gripped with severe weather due to heatwaves, wildfire smoke

Multnomah, a county in the northwestern state of Oregon, filed a lawsuit against prominent oil companies over the 'Heat Dome' disaster in 2021. The county is seeking&nbsp;$51 billion over one of the deadliest weather-related disasters in the United States.&nbsp;

Multnomah encompasses Portland, the state's most populous city. It blamed the oil companies for misleading the public about the impact of carbon pollution from using their products. They claimed that it was a leading factor in aggravating the heat wave.

The county asked for $50 billion in current damages from the Heat Dome and $1.5 billion for future damages as excessive heat, drought, wildfires, and smoky skies become more common. The county also asked for a much higher amount for a long-term abatement fund to upgrade its infrastructure.&nbsp;

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"This is an event that is directly attributed to the impacts that we are seeing on our climate because of the actions of fossil fuel companies and their agencies that have been pressing for decades to deny climate science," County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson told AFP.&nbsp;

Multnomah County has named several oil firms in their lawsuit, including ExxonMobil, Shell, Chevron, and BP. It has&nbsp;also mentioned the American Petroleum Institute, Western States Petroleum Association and McKinsey &amp; Company. In 2021, the county recorded high temperatures causing the death of 69 people, extensive property damage, and significant expenditure of taxpayer money.

The record-breaking heat wave caused a maximum temperature of 49.6 degree&nbsp;Celsius in Lytton, British Columbia and baked the western United States and Canada. Around 1,400 people died during the heat wave. According to an analysis by the World Weather Attribution group, the phenomenon was impossible without human-caused climate change.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;At least four terrorists killed in an encounter in J&amp;K's Kupwara

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As per the lawsuit, the Heat Dome was a "direct and foreseeable consequence" of the decision of oil companies to sell too many products over the last six decades.&nbsp;

An ExxonMobil spokesperson has responded to the lawsuit and said, "Suits like these continue to waste time, resources, and do nothing to address climate change." He added, "This action has no impact on our intention to invest billions of dollars to leading the way in a thoughtful energy transition that takes the world to net zero carbon emissions."

As per the reports by Bangkok Post, Chevron lawyers called such lawsuits "counterproductive distractions from advancing international policy solutions". 
 
"The federal Constitution bars these novel, baseless claims that target one industry and group of companies engaged in lawful activity that provides tremendous benefits to society," the Chevron counsel stated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Multnomah, a county in the northwestern state of Oregon, filed a lawsuit against prominent oil companies over the 'Heat Dome' disaster in 2021. The county is seeking $51 billion over one of the deadliest weather-related disasters in the United States.

Multnomah, a county in the northwestern state of Oregon, filed a lawsuit against prominent oil companies over the 'Heat Dome' disaster in 2021. The county is seeking $51 billion over one of the deadliest weather-related disasters in the United States. Multnomah encompasses Portland, the state's most populous city. It blamed the oil companies for misleading the public about the impact of carbon pollution from using their products. They claimed that it was a leading factor in aggravating the heat wave. The county asked for $50 billion in current damages from the Heat Dome and $1.5 billion for future damages as excessive heat, drought, wildfires, and smoky skies become more common. The county also asked for a much higher amount for a long-term abatement fund to upgrade its infrastructure. ALSO READ | Over 100,000 hacked ChatGPT accounts sold on dark web, India, Pak top the list "This is an event that is directly attributed to the impacts that we are seeing on our climate because of the actions of fossil fuel companies and their agencies that have been pressing for decades to deny climate science," County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson told AFP. Multnomah County has named several oil firms in their lawsuit, including ExxonMobil, Shell, Chevron, and BP. It has also mentioned the American Petroleum Institute, Western States Petroleum Association and McKinsey & Company. In 2021, the county recorded high temperatures causing the death of 69 people, extensive property damage, and significant expenditure of taxpayer money. The record-breaking heat wave caused a maximum temperature of 49.6 degree Celsius in Lytton, British Columbia and baked the western United States and Canada. Around 1,400 people died during the heat wave. According to an analysis by the World Weather Attribution group, the phenomenon was impossible without human-caused climate change. WATCH | At least four terrorists killed in an encounter in J&K's Kupwara As per the lawsuit, the Heat Dome was a "direct and foreseeable consequence" of the decision of oil companies to sell too many products over the last six decades. An ExxonMobil spokesperson has responded to the lawsuit and said, "Suits like these continue to waste time, resources, and do nothing to address climate change." He added, "This action has no impact on our intention to invest billions of dollars to leading the way in a thoughtful energy transition that takes the world to net zero carbon emissions." As per the reports by Bangkok Post, Chevron lawyers called such lawsuits "counterproductive distractions from advancing international policy solutions". "The federal Constitution bars these novel, baseless claims that target one industry and group of companies engaged in lawful activity that provides tremendous benefits to society," the Chevron counsel stated. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Multnomah County sues fuel companies for $51 billion over 'Heat Dome' disaster

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US: Multnomah County sues fuel companies for $51 billion over 'Heat Dome' disaster