Record-breaking Heat Wave Sweeps Across Western U.S.

The National Weather Service issued a warning on Friday that about 42 million people are currently under heat alerts due to “dangerous and record-breaking” heat in the West. Blistering temperatures above 100 degrees are forecast to persist, with cities like Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Boise, and Spokane experiencing record-setting highs.

The heat wave is expected to continue through the weekend, with high temperatures reaching 116 in Las Vegas, 103 in Salt Lake City, and 101 in Denver. The weather service stated that this extended heat wave is extremely dangerous and could be deadly if not taken seriously.

Relief is on the way as the upper-level ridge causing the heat is expected to move eastward by Sunday, bringing some respite to the region. However, this means that the heat will expand over central and eastern parts of the U.S. over the weekend.

In addition to the heat wave, an active storm system is anticipated to bring severe storms to the Northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes region. About 7 million people are at risk for severe storms in North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin on Saturday, with the risk extending to Chicago on Sunday.

Furthermore, around 18 million people are under flood watches from South Carolina to Massachusetts, including major cities like Philadelphia and New York City. The Weather Prediction Center has issued a slight risk of excessive rainfall in the region, prompting concerns about flash flooding.

As slow-moving tropical downpours continue to drench the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, the threat of flash flooding remains high in urban areas, small streams, and roads. The weather service advises residents to stay updated on the latest forecasts and warnings to stay safe.

Kathryn Prociv, a senior meteorologist and producer for NBC News, emphasized the importance of taking precautions during this extreme weather event. With millions of people impacted by heat alerts, severe storms, and flood watches, staying informed and prepared is crucial to staying safe.