Heat wave threatens 44 million in U.S., temperatures hit 43C
NWS forecasts more than 90 local temperature records could fall, with hot nights raising health risks.
About 44 million people in the United States are under heat wave warnings as temperatures in the Rocky Mountains and northern plains are expected to reach 38-43 degrees Celsius through the weekend. The U.S. National Weather Service warned the dangerous heat is well above seasonal averages and could break records in several areas, including Salt Lake City. On Sunday, the highest temperatures are expected in Montana and North Dakota. Some meteorologists say a heat dome that began over the Northern Plains could spread to two-thirds of the U.S. mainland in about 10 days. The heat is also hampering efforts to fight major wildfires in Colorado and Utah. According to the NWS forecast, more than 90 local temperature records could be surpassed, while overnight temperatures that remain high are increasing the risk of heatstroke.