It’s hotter than h …istory in areas of the Northwest, as record high temperatures are being blamed for power blackouts and deaths.
According to the Associated Press, Seattle and Portland each had consecutive days of heat above 100 degrees for the first time ever. The National Weather Service reported that Spokane, located in eastern Washington, saw a high of 109 degrees.
Power was out in areas of Spokane and six people died in incidents which may be related to the heat.
The early summer heat wave is not limited to the Northwest. According to USA Today, Philadelphia is suffering under a 105-degree “heat index,” which refers to hot temperatures made worse by high humidity. The mercury is climbing into the 90s in New England as well.
Relief in the Northeast may come on Wednesday in the form of severe thunderstorms and high winds, according to the National Weather Service.
California has been spared the intense heat. Temperatures this week in West Orange County will remain in the moderate high 70s and low 80s through the weekend.
Categories: The Wider World