The growing dangers of record heat waves like the one engulfing July 4th celebrations

Americans across the East Coast are bracing for an exceptionally hot Independence Day, with triple-digit temperatures disrupting travel, straining the energy grid, and forcing the cancellation or modification of planned celebrations. This severe heat wave affects approximately 160 million people from Mississippi to Maine.

In Pennsylvania, over 100 individuals required treatment for heat-related illnesses at an event marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. Celebrations on the National Mall in Washington D.C. were postponed for hours due to the extreme heat. New York City, anticipating a heat index of 110 degrees Fahrenheit, saw Mayor Zohran Mamdani urging residents to take precautions such as staying hydrated, using sunscreen, taking frequent breaks, and staying indoors in air-conditioned spaces if possible.

Meanwhile, health authorities in Europe have attributed thousands of excess deaths to recent record heat waves. Jeff Goodell, author of "The Heat Will Kill You First: Life and Death on a Scorched Planet," joined the "News Hour" to discuss the escalating dangers.

Goodell emphasized the immense risks associated with extreme heat, explaining that the human body is highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Prolonged exposure to such conditions places significant strain on the heart, making individuals with pre-existing heart conditions particularly vulnerable. Young children, especially those under two years old, are also at high risk as their ability to sweat is not yet fully developed. The elderly are also identified as a high-risk group.

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What we ask New Yorkers to do is to be mindful of the danger that accompanies those temperatures. That means make sure that you stay hydrated, make sure that you're putting on sunscreen, make sure that you're taking as many breaks as possible from being outside. And, if you can, to stay indoors and to stay in air conditioning.