Heat Wave in June 2016 -- Forecasts for California, Arizona and Nevada
Number of Fatalities Due to Extreme Heat Climbs to 4, Another Still Missing
Four people have died in Arizona due to the heat wave which has recently hit the United States. More than 30 million people in the country have been warned about extreme heat especially in New Mexico, Arizona and California. There are also wildfires in large areas which have started plaguing the region.
Temperature Continues to Climb
The temperatures on Monday are even higher than previous days. This could be alarming since Sunday recorded 118 degrees Fahrenheit in Phoenix, which forced an airplane to fly back to Texas because of too much heat.
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The first reported death was that of a 25-year-old hiker who was taking the Peralta Trail in Pinal County. The man was reportedly hiking with two of his friends when he died because of extreme heat.
Another fatality is a 28-year-old female trainer who was also hiking in Maricopa County when she passed away. A female hiker in Pima County also collapsed and died when she and a female companion went on a hike without bringing water. Authorities claim that another one is still missing.
The National Weather Service has also sent out an advisory, saying that the extreme temperature will continue to rise on Monday in the southwestern part of the U.S. The temperature in deserts could reach as high as 120 degrees this week.
Extreme heat advisories and warnings were maintained in Southern Arizona, Southern California and Southern Nevada where people were warned that the effects of extreme heat could be life threatening.
What is the Heat Dome?
The heat wave in the country is blamed on the "heat dome," a factor causing extremely high temperatures. Meteorologist Rachel Aissen explained that this so-called "heat dome" results from the capping of air in the atmosphere.
Excessive heat warnings have also been issued in Los Angeles, San Diego and Las Vegas. The public alert advised residents in these areas to never stay in enclosed vehicles even for a short time. People were also told to reschedule their physically challenging activities early in the morning or at night.
It would also be best for citizens to wear light clothes and bring enough water anywhere they go. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has also recommended workers to have rest breaks and seek shade whenever the heat is too much to handle.
