Death Valley to face extreme heat wave

Death Valley, located in California, is bracing for what could potentially be the hottest week ever recorded on Earth, with temperatures expected to soar to a scorching 133 degrees Fahrenheit. The National Parks Service notes that the highest air temperature ever recorded globally was 134F in Death Valley back in 1913. This upcoming heatwave is set to begin on Independence Day, with temperatures hitting 125F and steadily climbing to the peak of 133F on July 9, just shy of the all-time record. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for dangerous temperatures during this Fourth of July week, affecting a vast area from the West to the Mid-Atlantic, with nearly 150 million US residents under heat-related advisories across 21 states. California, where Death Valley is situated, is expected to face well above average temperatures, with the heatwave extending along the west coast towards Oregon and Washington by the end of the week. The NWS emphasizes the rarity of this early-July heatwave, predicting potentially record-breaking highs in multiple regions. Meteorologist Darren Peck explains that Death Valley's unique geographical position makes it prone to extreme heat, with summer temperatures often exceeding 120F in the shade and minimal rainfall. The average temperature over the next seven days is forecasted to be 128.6F, prompting concerns about the prolonged duration of the scorching conditions. The NWS advises residents to stay informed about the weather and heed guidance from local authorities to mitigate the impacts of the intense heatwave.