A scorching heat wave has gripped the western United States, bringing record-high temperatures and elevated wildfire risks to areas across California, Oregon, Washington, and the desert Southwest. Over 30 million people are under extreme weather alerts as temperatures soar above triple-digit territory.
The National Weather Service has issued excessive heat warnings for parts of these regions, predicting temperatures on Sunday could reach 111°F in Phoenix and 108°F in Tucson, creating “dangerously hot” conditions that pose significant risks to heat-related illnesses. Temperatures in the Pacific Northwest are expected to ease by Tuesday.
Portland experienced record-breaking temperatures, with Friday’s temperature of 102 degrees breaking the daily record set in 1942. In California, residents have faced sweltering temperatures and an increased risk of wildfires, particularly in areas prone to destructive blazes like Southern California.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has deployed firefighting resources to counties at high risk of wildfires, citing concerns for public safety. The state’s weather service has warned of “dangerously hot” daytime conditions with temperatures reaching 95-105°F, and advised people under warnings to limit outdoor activities until the heat wave subsides.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/pacific-northwest-west-coast-heat-wave-record-high-temperatures