Death Valley Heatwave Sets New Temperature Record at 128 Degrees

Reading Time: 2 minutes

As the sun beats down on the West Coast this week, residents braced for the heat, but this year is unlike any other. Death Valley, already infamous for its extreme temperatures, set a new daily record of 128 degrees Fahrenheit (53 Celsius), surpassing the previous high of 127 degrees recorded on July 6, 2007. This unprecedented Death Valley heatwave is not only affecting Death Valley but also extending its scorching reach across the Western and Eastern United States, impacting millions.

A New Normal for Extreme Heat

Nearly 70 million Americans are currently under heat alerts, with the National Weather Service predicting that highs in the upper 90s to 110s will persist along the West Coast and parts of the Great Basin. The forecast is daunting, with over 250 temperature records potentially set by next Wednesday. For those living in areas such as Las Vegas, this means enduring temperatures over 110 degrees for an extended period. Last Sunday, Las Vegas experienced an all-time high of 120 degrees, surpassing the city’s previous record of 117 degrees and making it feel like the city was inside a pizza oven.

Heatwaves and Heat-Related Health Risks

The prolonged heat is not just uncomfortable but poses serious health risks. Extreme heat is a leading weather-related killer in the United States, causing hundreds of deaths each year, including a motorcyclist in Death Valley over the weekend.

The multi-day nature of this heatwave, coupled with record-high overnight temperatures, prevents the body from cooling down, increasing the risk of heat stress and heat-related illnesses. The National Weather Service warns that this intense, widespread, and long-duration heat must be taken seriously.

Record-Breaking Temperatures Across the West

The heatwave has led to a slew of broken records:

• Daggett, California: 117 degrees
• Bishop, California: 108 degrees
• Redding, California: 119 degrees (beating the all-time high of 118)
• Kingman, Arizona: 109 degrees (breaking the previous record of 108)

These figures highlight the severity and scope of this heatwave. In addition, Owens Valley and Barstow in California, as well as Pahrump in Nevada, are forecasted to experience temperatures upwards of 118 degrees.

Living in Extreme Weather Conditions

For those residing near Death Valley, the forecast remains grim with temperatures potentially hitting 130 degrees. The extreme heat is exacerbated by high overnight temperatures that may not drop below 90 degrees for several days. This continuous exposure to extreme heat makes it difficult for residents to find respite, further endangering their health.

While the West grapples with a Death Valley heatwave and extreme regional temperatures, the heat and humidity in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast are expected to gradually subside into the next week. However, the heatwave is projected to expand into the Great Basin and northern High Plains, potentially persisting into mid-July.

Death Valley Heatwave: Setting Records and Raising Alarms

As we face these record-breaking temperatures, it’s crucial to stay informed and prepared. The relentless heat serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change. By taking necessary precautions, we can protect ourselves and our communities from the dangers of extreme heat.

Stay safe, stay cool, and keep an eye on weather updates. Share your stories and experiences with us in the comments below or on our social media channels. Together, we can navigate these extreme conditions and support one another through the heat.

---

Death Valley just shattered its daily record with a scorching 128 degrees! As this relentless West Coast heatwave continues, the impact is being felt far and wide. #DeathValleyTemperatures #Heatwave #RecordHeat #ClimateChange… Share on X