It could be hottest July 4th ever for millions of Americans, with over 300 record temperatures forecast
This July Fourth could be the hottest on record for millions of Americans as a massive heat wave traps more than half of the United States under a heat dome through the holiday weekend.
TL;DR
- Over half of the United States is under a heat dome, with potential for the hottest July Fourth on record.
- More than 300 temperature records are expected to be set by Saturday due to dangerously high temperatures and humidity.
- New York City is deploying nurses in vans to distribute water, electrolytes, and sunscreen, and opening cooling centers.
- Nashville is deploying heat patrols to hand out cold bottled water to the homeless population.
- Heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths, and conditions are especially hazardous for the elderly.
- Warning signs for heat-related emergencies include fatigue, light-headedness, muscle cramps, and upset stomach; heat stroke is indicated by altered mental status and confusion.