US faces worst day of heatwave with over 113 million at risk

The United States is grappling with the peak of a severe heatwave, with over 113 million people under "major" or "extreme" risk warnings issued by the National Weather Service. The extreme heat and humidity are primarily affecting the northern and midwestern United States, with forecasts predicting temperatures between 32 and 38 degrees Celsius (90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit).

The "major" heat advisory blankets a vast area from the Dakotas to Virginia, encompassing major cities like Chicago and New York. This alert highlights potential dangers for vulnerable populations lacking cooling and hydration, as well as strain on healthcare systems and industries. In the Dakotas, nearly two million people are under an "extreme" warning, indicating risks to infrastructure and nighttime safety.

While the most intense conditions are expected to ease by Thursday, affecting fewer people, the heatwave has already taken a toll. Since the heatwave began over the July 4th weekend, around 30 fatalities have been reported, with New Jersey alone recording 25 deaths. Meanwhile, parts of Texas, New Mexico, and Montana are contending with flood alerts due to severe storms, raising concerns about dangerous flash flooding.