With a significant heatwave impacting eastern North America, dozens have been hospitalized due to heat-related illnesses. The first major wave of summer heat has led to more than 150 individuals falling ill during an outdoor graduation ceremony in Paterson, New Jersey, prompting the city's mayor to declare a state of emergency. Reports indicate that during a concert in Washington DC featuring the South Korean band 'Stray Kids,' six attendees required hospital treatment for related issues.
Heat warnings are currently in effect from the Midwest to the East Coast, affecting over 160 million people, and similar conditions prevail in parts of Canada, including Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. Dozens of people in North Carolina are reported to have sought hospital treatment for heat-related injuries, with local media noting that at least 41 individuals, including children, were affected.
Authorities in New Jersey have classified the illnesses resulting from the graduation ceremonies as a "mass casualty" incident, leading to cancellations of some events in the region. Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh's state of emergency includes the cancellation of recreational activities and the establishment of cooling centers to help residents cope.
Experts warn that the combination of soaring temperatures and high humidity levels during this lengthy heatwave poses an increased risk of heat-related illness. Several eastern cities are unlikely to experience significant nighttime relief, with temperatures anticipated to remain above 80°F (27°C) overnight. As summer officially began just a week ago, forecasters predict potential record highs across the region, particularly emphasizing the Mid-Atlantic, expected to face the worst heat conditions by Thursday, extending into the eastern Ohio Valley by Friday.
The US National Weather Service (NWS) urges residents to take preventive measures against heat exhaustion and heat stroke, advising people to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, stay hydrated, and reach out to vulnerable individuals. Concerns over excessive heat are heightened, with New York potentially experiencing highs of 101°F (38°C), equaling its highest June temperature recorded since 1966.
In response to the heatwave, east coast energy companies are asking residents to conserve power to prevent potential blackouts as air conditioning use surges across the region.
