San Francisco and Phoenix experienced record-breaking heat on Tuesday, with temperatures soaring above 100F in many areas. The National Weather Service issued warnings about the dangerous heat, which posed a threat to property and life. Excessive heat warnings were in place across the southwest US, with concerns about wildfires, power outages, and heat-related deaths, especially among the homeless and elderly.
In San Francisco, temperatures reached 93F, while Phoenix set a new record for the hottest 1 October on record with a high of 113F. The heat wave is expected to continue, with temperatures above 110F becoming more frequent in Phoenix. The city has already seen a staggering 666 heat-related deaths this year, with nearly half of the victims being unhoused individuals.
In Las Vegas, heat played a role in the deaths of at least 342 people this year, a record high for the area. The extreme heat has prompted concerns about the impact on public health and safety, as well as the strain on infrastructure such as power grids.
As the heat wave continues to scorch the southwest US, officials are urging residents to take precautions to stay safe and cool, and to look out for vulnerable populations who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. The extreme temperatures serve as a reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and its impact on communities across the country.
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Photo credit www.theguardian.com
