A dangerous heatwave has been sweeping across the United States, affecting millions of Americans and leading to heat-related advisories and alerts in many areas. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for record-breaking temperatures in some regions, with heat index values reaching the mid-100s in some places.
In response to the extreme heat, officials are urging residents to take precautions such as staying hydrated, wearing loose clothing, and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours. The heatwave has already disrupted the lives of many, with power outages in Michigan and heat-related deaths in Idaho.
In addition to the excessive heat, some states are also dealing with flash flooding caused by heavy rains. Parts of New England and the Great Lakes have experienced flash flooding, leading to road closures and evacuations. In Iowa, helicopters were sent to evacuate residents from flooded homes in the town of Rock Valley.
The heatwave is expected to continue over the weekend, with temperatures rising in the western and central U.S. Some regions, such as New Mexico and Nevada, are experiencing "monsoon-like conditions" with scattered showers and storms bringing the threat of heavy downpours.
Overall, the combination of extreme heat and flash flooding has created challenging conditions for residents across the country. Officials are working to restore power, evacuate affected areas, and provide shelter for displaced residents. The situation is being closely monitored by the National Weather Service and other agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of those impacted by the severe weather.