Marek Kučera 
🌡️ Brutal Heatwave Hits Western North America: Death Valley Hits 121°F (49.4°C)
A severe and intense heatwave is currently gripping the western coast of North America, bringing record-breaking temperatures and hazardous conditions across a vast region stretching from Canada through the United States down to Mexico.
- Death Valley, California, one of the hottest places on Earth, recorded an oppressive 120.9°F (49.4°C) — a temperature that pushes the limits of human tolerance and can have serious impacts on health, infrastructure, and the environment.
- The heat is not isolated:
- Washington State experienced highs reaching 105°F (40.5°C), an extreme event for this typically cooler Pacific Northwest region.
- In Chihuahua State, Mexico, temperatures soared to 49.0°C (120.2°F), continuing the intense heat trend across northern Mexico.
Meteorological Background
This heatwave is driven by a strong high-pressure ridge dominating the Pacific coast and adjacent inland regions, causing:
- Stable atmospheric conditions that trap heat near the surface.
- Intense solar heating due to clear skies and long daylight hours in early summer.
- Reduced soil moisture amplifying heat through less evaporative cooling.
- A “heat dome” effect, where warm air is compressed and intensified by atmospheric pressure patterns.
Impacts and Outlook
- Health risks: Heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dehydration, and aggravation of chronic health conditions. Vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and outdoor workers are at the highest risk.
- Environmental stress: Increased wildfire risk, stress on water supplies, and heat damage to crops and wildlife.
- Infrastructure challenges: Potential for power outages due to high air conditioning demand and damage to roads and railways.
Authorities in affected regions are urging residents to take precautions: stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Illustration picture: https://jamesdbest.blogspot.com/2015/01/escape-from-death-valley.html
