Historic western heat wave shatters temperature records with more on the way as heat dome maintains its grip
Millions of Americans are at risk for heat related issues this week as temperatures continue to soar across the Western United States over the next several days.
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Excessive heat warnings, heat advisories, and excessive heat watches are covering the Western United States today, putting over 36 million people at risk. This heat wave has been in effect for over a week, now with no signs of letting up. So far, many daily records as well as a few all-time records have been broken in the west. We expect this trend to continue as the powerful heat dome holds on.
Records shattering over the weekend
Las Vegas, NV has broken their previous highest temperature yesterday, reaching 120°F. Their previous record was set 5 times in past years, of only 117°F, should this temperature be validated, yesterday will become the hottest day on record for the city.
NEW RECORD: Las Vegas, NV just recorded its hottest day since records began in 1937 with a scorching high temperature of 48.9°C (120°F). This shatters the previous record of 47.2°C (117°F) which was hit five times in 2021, 2017, 2013, 2005 & 1942. This is a truly historic day. pic.twitter.com/u817AoTgty
— Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) July 8, 2024
The previous record Death Valley, CA has also been reached yesterday with a high of 129°F. This ties the cities record set in 2007. The city has been tying or surpassing their daily temperature records every day since Friday, with more high temperatures on the way.
This heat wave is leaving a trail of broken records across the west, even reaching northern regions. Medford, OR broke their previous record of 102°F set in 2014 with a high of 108°F yesterday. This has been consistent over the weekend with new records set each day since Friday. Today and tomorrow, the city will maintain high temperatures with highs of 109°F and 107°F forecasted.
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Seattle, WA broke their previous July 7th record of 89°F set in 1920 with a high of 92°F recorded yesterday. As did Portland, OR with a high of 100°F yesterday breaking their 2010 record of 95°F.
Dangerous heat takes a life in Death Valley
Death Valley attracts over a million visitors each year, however, as the warm months arise, visitors must be careful to plan accordingly for the heat. Over the weekend, when temperatures reached over 125°F, one motorcyclist died, and another was hospitalized due to the extreme heat.
The National Park officials are urging folks to choose their activities in the area cautiously. Activities outside of air-conditioned air for prolonged periods of time are extremely dangerous and should be avoided.
Death Valley has hit at least 129 degrees today. That's just 1 degree off its highest reliably measured temp (which is the highest reliably measured temp on Earth). pic.twitter.com/ZRk0f3MNl0
— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) July 7, 2024
Temperatures are continuing to soar across the west, so be sure to keep up with proactive measures to reduce risk of heat related illnesses. Stay inside, especially at the warmest points during the day, drink plenty of water and fluids, avoid caffeine and alcohol, and wear loose light clothing. Elderly and children are at increased risk for heat related illnesses, so be sure to check on them during this extreme heat.