"As temperatures climb dramatically, over 150 individuals have been hospitalized due to heat-related illnesses, prompting local governments to declare states of emergency and issue warnings. The heatwave, impacting both the US and parts of Canada, may result in record high temperatures this summer."
"Severe Heatwave Strikes North America, Leading to Hospitalizations and State of Emergency"
"Severe Heatwave Strikes North America, Leading to Hospitalizations and State of Emergency"
"A significant heatwave across eastern North America has resulted in hospitalizations and emergency measures as temperatures soar."
Dozens of people have been rushed to hospitals due to heat-related ailments as the first major heatwave of the summer grips eastern North America. Reports indicate that over 150 attendees at a school graduation event in Paterson, New Jersey, fell ill on Monday, leading the city's mayor to declare a state of emergency. In Washington DC, six concert-goers at a performance by the South Korean band 'Stray Kids' also required medical attention, according to CBS News.
The National Weather Service has issued heat warnings spanning from the US Midwest to the East Coast, affecting over 160 million people this week. In North Carolina, reports confirm that at least 41 people, including children, have been hospitalized due to heat-related issues. Local officials have described the incidents at the graduation ceremonies as "mass casualty" events, resulting in the cancellation of some ceremonies.
Paterson's Mayor Andre Sayegh has taken action by canceling recreational activities and opening cooling centers to help combat the oppressive heat. Experts warn that the combination of high temperatures and humidity will significantly increase the danger of heat illnesses, particularly since temperatures may remain above 80°F (27°C) overnight.
Just days after the official start of summer, forecasters predict several locations could break June temperature records. By Thursday, the Mid-Atlantic region may endure the worst conditions, extending into the eastern Ohio Valley until Friday. The prolonged high temperatures could create severe health risks for the population.
In response to the extreme weather, the US National Weather Service advises individuals to monitor for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, stay indoors during peak sun hours, and hydrate adequately. The significant heatwave may even match or exceed historical June highs, with New York facing potential temperatures of 101°F (38°C), which would tie with the record from 1966.
Meanwhile, energy companies on the East Coast have requested customers to conserve electricity amid concerns of power outages as air conditioning use surges across millions of households.
