A severe heat wave has begun in one-third of the eastern United States. More than 160 million people have been suffering in this heat wave that began on Monday. The temperature in New York City is expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius.
A major heat wave began across the United States late last week. However, it is predicted that it may reach its peak on Monday and Tuesday this week. In particular, the heat wave is the most severe in Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York City.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams warned that this intense heat is not only uncomfortable or unbearable, but can also be dangerous for residents. He said that at least 500 of the city’s 8 million people die in the heat every year. If the situation is not taken seriously, it can become very difficult.
He said that senior citizens and sick people who do not have air conditioning in their homes in the scorching heat have been requested to drink enough water and take shelter in nearby cooling centers, libraries and recreation centers.
The temperature in the northeastern United States has broken all previous records. On Monday, the temperature in Central Park, known as the “lungs” of Manhattan, reached 35.5 degrees Celsius. This is the highest temperature since 1888.
The National Weather Service (NWS) said that an extreme heat wave warning has been issued for one-third of the eastern part of the country. At least 160 million people in 29 states are affected.
The agency also said that heat waves of this magnitude are rare and long-lasting. Temperatures do not drop significantly even at night and it is very dangerous for those who do not take adequate cooling measures or drinks.
Meteorologists are using the term “heat dome” to describe this situation. It is a high pressure area that traps hot air and continuously increases the temperature. However, for New Yorkers, there is no opportunity to stop working even in this heat wave.
Manuel, a worker busy repairing the exterior of a building in the city’s Harlem area, said, “We have to endure. How can I survive if I don’t?’ He added, ‘We are forced to stop work for a while. Not everyone’s strength is the same.’
Authorities in the Washington Heights area have opened several fire hydrants so that residents can get some relief by spraying water.
Ronald Marcellin, a 44-year-old AC technician, was sweating profusely while repairing an AC at a pizza shop. When asked to speak, he said with a laugh, ‘I’m enduring the heat so that others can stay cool.’
The heat index in Washington, a combination of temperature and humidity, could reach 43.3 degrees Celsius on Monday. Scientists say such extreme heat waves are a direct effect of global warming. They are feared to be longer and more intense in the future.
2024 was the world’s warmest year due to man-made climate change. And 2025 is predicted to be one of the top three warmest years.
