With the first significant heat wave of summer hitting eastern North America, dozens have been hospitalized for heat-related illnesses, prompting emergency measures in several areas, including New Jersey and North Carolina.
Major Heat Wave Strikes North America, Hundreds Hospitalized
Major Heat Wave Strikes North America, Hundreds Hospitalized
A severe heat wave affects over 160 million across North America, leading to hospitalizations and state of emergency declarations.
As temperatures soar, a major heat wave has swept across eastern North America, resulting in the hospitalization of dozens due to heat-related illnesses. Over 150 individuals fell ill at an outdoor school graduation event in Paterson, New Jersey, prompting the city's mayor to declare a state of emergency. In Washington DC, the South Korean band 'Stray Kids' concert saw six attendees requiring hospital care due to the extreme heat, as reported by CBS News, a partner of the BBC.
Heat warnings have been issued stretching from the US Midwest to the East Coast, impacting regions in Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia, and affecting over 160 million residents. In North Carolina, local news reported at least 41 people, including children, were hospitalized for heat-related injuries. Authorities characterized the incidents at graduation ceremonies in New Jersey as a "mass casualty" situation, leading to the cancellation of some events.
Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh responded to the crisis by declaring an emergency, cancelling recreational activities, and opening cooling centers for residents. Experts caution that the significant rise in temperatures, accompanied by high humidity, could pose additional risks of heat illness, particularly with little overnight respite — temperatures in some eastern cities may exceed 80F (27C) even at night.
This heatwave commenced shortly after the official start of summer, with forecasters predicting some areas might experience record temperatures. The Mid-Atlantic region is expected to confront the worst conditions by Thursday, extending into the eastern Ohio Valley by Friday, with extended oppressive heat days raising health dangers.
The US National Weather Service (NWS) has urged individuals to recognize signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and recommended strategies to stay cool, such as avoiding direct sun during peak hours and remaining hydrated. Special care should be taken for vulnerable groups, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health issues. Each summer brings extreme heat to parts of North America, yet this current heat wave threatens to surpass June records, with New York potentially reaching 101F (38C) on Tuesday, matching the highest June temperature since 1966. Meanwhile, energy providers on the East Coast are requesting conservation efforts from customers amid fears of potential blackouts as air conditioning usage surges.
