A significant heatwave is affecting large parts of the US with temperatures nearing 100°F, while a tropical system may bring rain to South Texas and northeastern Mexico. Climate scientists warn of increased frequency of such events due to climate change.
A significant heatwave is affecting large parts of the US, including the Ohio Valley and mid-Atlantic regions, with temperatures nearing 100°F. Nearly 100 million Americans are under heat alerts, impacting cities such as Washington, DC, Philadelphia, and Boston, where a three-day heat emergency has been declared. California is also experiencing high temperatures, complicating efforts to control the Sites Fire.
In addition to the heatwave, a tropical system is likely to develop over the southwest Gulf of Mexico, potentially bringing rain to South Texas and northeastern Mexico, raising concerns about flooding.
This extreme weather follows a trend observed by climate scientists, who attribute increased frequency of such events to climate change. Earlier this month, regions in the southwestern US, Mexico, and Central America also faced severe heatwaves.
In Mexico, prolonged high temperatures have led to widespread drought, affecting over 70% of the country and causing deaths due to heat stroke and dehydration. The drought is further straining shared water resources between the US and Mexico under a longstanding treaty. However, northern Mexico is now anticipating heavy rainfall due to Tropical Storm Alberto, potentially mitigating some drought conditions.
