extreme heat
(Photo : Pixabay / Geralt)

Various heat weather warnings have been relayed in the US ahead of an impending heat wave.

This extreme heat wave is projected to impact large areas of Nevada, California, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas this week.

Excessive Heat Weather Warnings Issued

In certain areas, such as in Phoenix and Las Vegas, mercury could reach up to 111 degrees Fahrenheit. This has prompted the National Weather Service to relay various excessive heat warnings.

This excessive heat warning implied a period of extremely hot temperatures, even by local standards, would take place. This gets issued when temperatures may reach at least 105 degrees for two or more days. Air temperature during night time may also not drop under 75.

Most notably, areas that are of concern include regions in the Southwest Desert and Central Valley of California, where extreme temperatures may easily exceed 100 degrees.

Forecasters have also relayed several excessive heat warnings in California, as Sacramento Valley areas are expected to have temperatures that exceed 110 degrees.

The cities of Bakersfield, Fresno, and San Diego may also see extremely high temperatures. Death Valley Natural Park could witness temperatures that range from 118 to 122 degrees.

Forecasters have also said that Las Vegas will have extremely hot conditions by early June, as temperatures are expected to range from 107 to 114 degrees. For Phoenix, mercury could go up to 113 degrees.

These warnings are also implemented in Texas, including areas like Corpus Christi and Brownsville.

Areas in Utah, including the Washington County areas and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, may also have extremely hot weather conditions with limited relief overnight. Nighttime air temperatures in this area could remain in the mid-70 levels.

Advisories for heat warnings are also placed in El Paso, Texas, and Santa Teresa, New Mexico, as temperatures are expected to range from 103 to 107 degrees.

ALSO READ: Extreme Heat Waves: How High Temperatures Affect Physical, Mental Health

Extreme Heat

These high temperatures are currently caused by a heat dome, which is a meteorological phenomena that involves high pressure ridges getting stuck within the atmosphere. This ends up trapping hot air of the ocean like a boiling pot's lid, resulting in extremely high temperatures.

As for heat advisories, they generally mean that temperatures could exceed at least 100 degrees for two or more days. Residents in the affected six states should see the National Weather Service to see forecasts of temperatures in their region.

What To Do During Extreme Heat

When a heat wave happens, people are recommended to stay indoors, drink more water, and shelter in buildings that are air-conditioned.

Some elderly individuals and small children would also be notably vulnerable to illnesses that are heat related, including heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Since extreme humidity and heat could challenge the ability of the body to cool itself, it is crucial to understand excessive heat exposure signs and how heat-related illnesses can be treated.

Understanding the warning signs for heat exhaustion and heat stroke and how these two are different could aid in the protection of oneself and others.

RELATED ARTICLE: Extreme Temperatures, Hot Nights Associated With 7% Higher Stroke Risk, Study Reveals

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