Search Here

A study in the Nature Climate Change estimated that by the next decades, temperatures in Manhattan would increase an average of 4 degrees Fahrenheit, which could lead to more deaths from heat waves. Even though the temperatures are not rising just yet on the east coast, the west coast, particularly Arizona and Nevada, are currently experiencing a heat wave with temperatures potentially soaring up to and over 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

The National Weather Service has issued an "excessive heat warning." According to the forecast, Phoenix, AZ reached 116 degrees on Friday and temperatures are expected to rise to 120. The current record in this city is 122. The temperature in Death Valley, the desert valley by Eastern California, is expected to rise to 130 this weekend. Although this temperature is four degrees shy of the record set exactly a century ago in 1913, it is still surprising to witness such scorching heat.

"Coming to Death Valley in the summertime has always been on the top of my bucket list," 67-year-old Dan Kail, who was vacationing in Las Vegas commented to ABC News. Kail is from Pittsburgh, PA. "When I found out it might set a record I rented a car and drove straight over. If it goes above 130 I will have something to brag about. The wind out here is like being in front of a blast furnace."

Although not every one can agree that experiencing this type of heat is exciting, everyone must remember to stay cooled and remain in the shade or indoors. So far, there have already been 200 people treated for heat related issues who were attending an outdoor concert in Las Vegas. 30 of these people were sent to the hospital. The temperature was recorded at 115 and the majority of them were treated with some water and shade.

"This is the hottest time of the year, but the temperatures that we'll be looking at for Friday through Sunday, they'll be toward the top," the weather service meteorologist Mark O'Malley said. "It's going to be barking hot across much of the entire West."

Aside from Arizona and Nevada, temperatures are expected to rise into the three-digit numbers in Utah, Wyoming and Idaho. The temperatures are not expected to break until early next week. Health officials remind all residents to avoid leaving their homes. This type of heat can lead to strokes, burns and dehydration. On top of that, dogs can suffer heat blisters, burns and dehydration as well.