PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — A slow-moving heat wave is breaking records across the West, bringing dangerously high temperatures and prompting residents to seek cooler environments. The Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions are also experiencing oppressive heat and humidity that is expected to persist into the weekend.
California’s Death Valley reached a scorching 127 Fahrenheit (52.8 Celsius), breaking the previous record high for the date by 5 degrees. Phoenix also set a new record high of 118 (47.7 C), with temperatures forecasted to be 115 (46.1 C) or hotter through Wednesday. The West is facing triple-digit temperatures well above average into next week, posing a dangerous situation for those without proper cooling or hydration.
In Gresham, Oregon, residents like Sherri Thompson, who has lived in her car for three years, are struggling to stay cool. The heat wave has resulted in numerous heat-related deaths in Arizona, with temperatures expected to reach up to 130 (54.44 C) in Death Valley National Park.
Boone reported from Boise, Idaho, and Sonner reported from Reno, Nevada. Associated Press journalists Jonathan Drew in Raleigh, North Carolina; John Antczak in Los Angeles; Rio Yamat in Las Vegas; Denise Lavoie in Richmond, Virginia; and Ben Finely in Norfolk, Virginia, contributed.
