‘Stay out of sun’: Heat emergency in US as mercury breaches record highs
A relentless heat wave that had fallen over the Midwest and east Coast and was forecast to last throughout the weekend hit tens of millions of Americans with a one-two punch of oppressively high temperatures and humidity on Friday. The National Weather service (NWS) said that the midday heat index values in several places soared far beyond 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 C), putting more than 175 million Americans under extreme heat warnings and advisories until at least saturday afternoon.
For individuals who are unable to flee the heat, cooling centers have been established in public libraries and community centers in some of the greatest cities in the country, including Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia. The city of Boston issued a heat emergency and posted warnings on its website that "extreme heat can be dangerous to health, and even fatal," adding that its street outreach teams will distribute water along their routes.
City authorities and weather forecasters in the united states are advising residents to avoid the heat since it can lead to heat-related diseases, especially for those who work outside or engage in outdoor activities, elderly adults (65 and older), children, and individuals with chronic conditions. The NWS advised, "Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, avoid the sun, and check on family and neighbors."