health
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.