Heat wave endangers lives of millions across the U.S

The eastern third of the United States is experiencing an unprecedented heat wave that started during the weekend and reached its peak on Monday and Tuesday, affecting nearly 160 million people. Cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. are under extreme heat warnings and advisories due to soaring temperatures that could reach 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius). These conditions have caused authorities to declare states of emergency in various cities, urging residents, especially vulnerable populations like seniors and individuals with health issues, to hydrate and utilize cooling centers set up for public safety. Meteorologists have attributed this extreme weather to a phenomenon known as a 'heat dome', where high pressure traps warm air and humidity in a large area, leading to persistently high temperatures. This heat wave is expected to break temperature records not seen in over a decade, indicative of climate change's impact on weather patterns across the United States. With projections indicating that triple-digit temperatures could persist, health officials are particularly concerned about heat-related illnesses becoming more prevalent. Schools have also been affected, with many opting for early closures in response to the oppressive heat, particularly in New York and New Jersey, where temperatures reached unprecedented levels for early summer. The National Weather Service warned that individuals should take precautions if spending time outdoors, emphasizing that hydration and seeking shade or air conditioning are crucial in mitigating the risks of extreme heat. As night temperatures offer little relief, the dangers are amplified for those without air conditioning. Experts predict that while the intensity of this heat wave may start to decline by Wednesday, it could still take until Thursday for many areas to experience a significant drop in temperatures. This extended period of dangerously high heat poses significant health risks, reinforcing the importance of being prepared for such extremes as summers in the U.S. continue to trend warmer than in previous decades.