Dangerous Heat Wave Scorches Eastern U.S., Affecting 160 Million People

AFP

New York: A dangerous and potentially life-threatening heat wave swept across the eastern third of the United States on Monday, impacting nearly 160 million people as temperatures soared to 104°F (40°C) in parts of the New York metropolitan area.

The extreme weather, marking the first major heat event of the year, began over the weekend and is expected to peak on Monday and Tuesday in major cities including Washington D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York City.

“This extreme heat will not just be uncomfortable and oppressive for New Yorkers — it can be deadly,” warned New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Every year, heat kills around 500 people in our city.” He urged residents to take the threat seriously and take necessary precautions.

City officials called on vulnerable groups — including the elderly, people with chronic health conditions, and those without access to air conditioning — to stay hydrated and seek refuge in public cooling centers, such as libraries and recreation centers.

Historic temperature records fell across the region, including in Manhattan’s Central Park, where Monday’s reading of 96°F broke a long-standing record from 1888, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

The NWS issued Extreme Heat Warnings and Advisories across at least 29 states, warning that the unusually high temperatures and lack of overnight cooling could pose serious health risks. “This level of HeatRisk is rare and can be prolonged, with little to no relief, particularly dangerous for those without access to cooling or hydration,” the agency noted.

Meteorologists attributed the scorching conditions to a heat dome — a high-pressure system trapping hot air and pushing temperatures steadily higher over several days.

Despite the dangerous conditions, many workers in New York were left with no choice but to carry on. “We have to endure it, because we need to survive,” said Manuel, a construction worker repairing a building facade in Harlem. “Sometimes we stop, because it’s dangerous. We’re not all built the same, but we have to push through.”

In neighborhoods like Washington Heights, authorities opened fire hydrants to help residents cool off. Among those braving the heat to help others was Ronald Marcelin, a 44-year-old air conditioning technician drenched in sweat while repairing a local pizzeria’s cooling system. “I’m taking the heat so others can cool down,” he said with a smile.

Meanwhile, the soaring temperatures coincide with Tuesday’s Democratic mayoral primary in New York. The race is heating up between former governor Andrew Cuomo — attempting a political comeback after resigning in 2021 — and progressive candidate Zohran Mamdani. Cuomo urged voters to show up at the polls despite the blistering heat.

In Washington, the heat index — which accounts for humidity — was forecast to reach a sweltering 110°F, prompting city officials to expand cooling center access.

Scientists have long warned that such extreme heat events are becoming more frequent, intense, and prolonged due to human-driven climate change. The year 2024 was the hottest on record globally, and forecasts suggest 2025 could be among the top three warmest years ever recorded.