NEW YORK — An unprecedented heat wave is gripping the southern United States, with temperatures shattering all-time records in multiple states and putting millions of Americans at risk.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
The National Weather Service has issued excessive heat warnings across a dozen states, with some areas recording temperatures above 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Emergency cooling centers have been opened in major cities throughout the region.
Power grids are under extreme stress as air conditioning demand surges to record levels. Several utilities have warned of potential rolling blackouts if consumption continues to climb.
Climate scientists note that this event is consistent with projections for increasing extreme heat events. Hospitals across the region are reporting significant increases in heat-related emergency visits.
