This week, a dangerous heatwave approaching the western United States that may break temperature records is set to affect California, Arizona, and Southern Nevada, including Las Vegas.
According to ABC News, starting on Tuesday, June 4th, heat advisories will be issued for the valleys in California, ranging from Redding and Sacramento in the north to Fresno and Bakersfield in the south, with temperatures possibly soaring to 108 degrees Fahrenheit.
By Wednesday, the heat advisories will extend to Las Vegas and Lake Havasu City in Arizona. It is anticipated that by Thursday or Friday, temperatures in Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Palm Springs in California could skyrocket to 112 degrees.
If Las Vegas surpasses 110 degrees on Thursday, it will set a record for the earliest occurrence of such high temperatures in June in the city. Should Phoenix exceed 111 degrees, it will break the single-day highest temperature record set in 2016.
Reno in Nevada and Fresno in California are also forecasted to approach their respective daily high temperature records on Thursday.
Such extreme temperatures pose significant health risks, with prolonged exposure to heat potentially leading to heat cramps or even heat exhaustion. If not addressed promptly, it could escalate to heatstroke.
Further north, temperatures in Salt Lake City and Boise, Idaho, could also reach over 90 degrees.
Doctors advise residents to take heat warnings seriously. According to the CDC WONDER database, hundreds of individuals in the United States die each year due to heat-related causes, with scientists warning that the actual number of heat-related fatalities may be higher.
Please make sure to pay attention to the following preventative tips provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
– Apply sunscreen diligently. Preventing sunburn is crucial, as it can lead to dehydration and impact the body’s ability to cool down. Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher before going out, with products labeled “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” being most effective.
– Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water regularly and avoid waiting until you’re thirsty. Avoid high-sugar beverages and alcohol, as they can cause further dehydration. Cold drinks may trigger stomach cramps. Avoid consuming heavy or calorie-rich meals to help regulate body temperature.
– Limit outdoor activities. Reduce physical exertion during heatwaves and take frequent breaks in shaded, cooler areas. Opt for outdoor activities during the cooler morning or evening hours.
– Check your vehicle and never leave children alone in a parked car, even if the windows are open.
– Pay attention to high-risk groups. Infants, overweight individuals, seniors aged 65 and above, those who overexert themselves physically or through work, individuals with heart disease or hypertension, and those taking medications for depression, insomnia, or poor blood circulation are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Be vigilant for heat-related symptoms, including a body temperature exceeding 103 degrees, hot, red, dry, or moist skin, rapid and strong heartbeat, headaches, dizziness, nausea, unconsciousness, or a cessation of sweating.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include profuse sweating, cold, pale, clammy skin, rapid but weak heartbeat, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, feeling fatigued or weak, headaches, and unconsciousness.
If someone exhibits symptoms of heatstroke or heat exhaustion, call 911, move them to a cool place, and use a towel to help cool their body.
Don’t forget about your pets! Here are some recommendations from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to help keep your pets safe in hot temperatures: provide plenty of fresh water to prevent dehydration, avoid excessive exercise for your pets, never leave them alone in a parked car, and watch for signs of heat-related illnesses, including excessive panting, difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rates, and drooling.
Flat-faced animals like pugs are less efficient at cooling off due to their inability to pant effectively. These pets, as well as older and overweight animals, should be kept indoors as much as possible.