More than 50 million people in America are below warmth warnings as a whole bunch are evacuated due to flooding within the Midwest.
Over 50 million Americans are under excessive warmth advisories due to extreme temperatures, while flooding in the Midwest has prompted rescue efforts and evacuations.
According to the Nationwide Built-in Thermal Health Data System, as of Monday, around 57.4 million people nationwide were under active warnings, watches, and alerts for excessive heat, up from 123.8 million on Sunday.
The early onset of intense heat this summer has significantly heightened the risk of heat-related stress, especially for those outdoors without reliable access to air conditioning, according to a report from the National Weather Service.
This surge in temperatures and the concurrent deadly flooding underscore the escalating dangers posed by extreme weather events driven by climate change, which have increased both in frequency and intensity.
In South Dakota, the governor reported that at least one fatality occurred due to weekend flooding. Across the border in Iowa, Governor Kim Reynolds informed the media that over 1,000 displaced individuals sought refuge in shelters overnight. The flooding has disrupted daily life severely, with businesses closed, major streets affected, and essential facilities like hospitals and nursing homes evacuated. Some communities are grappling with power outages and water supply shortages.
Meanwhile, cities such as Philadelphia have issued warnings about heat indices soaring above 105 degrees Fahrenheit (41 degrees Celsius), placing residents at high risk of heat-related illnesses. Meteorologists, like Bruce Thoren from the National Weather Service in Oklahoma, emphasize the importance of staying hydrated and taking precautions, especially for those who are outdoors. The combination of heat, humidity, and stagnant air can swiftly pose health hazards, even for individuals who are typically in good health and not accustomed to such extreme conditions.
As climate change continues to amplify these weather extremes, communities and individuals alike are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for more frequent and intense heatwaves and flooding events.
