'Heat dome' grips western US: 34 million Americans brace for record heat. Here's what it means
Heat US
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.
America to sweat it out with 40°C+ heat
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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.
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 continuefor 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)
