Heat Alerts Are in Effect For One-Third of Americans

A scorching heat wave that has been roasting the country expanded deeper into California, placing more than a third of Americans under extreme heat advisories, watches, and warnings.

The National Weather Service advised many locals to get ready for the hottest weather of the year as the oppressive conditions were likely to worsen in Central and Southern California. 

Inland desert highs, which might reach 120°F (48.8°C) during the day and stay over 26.6°C overnight, provide little relief.

With only 20 indoor beds at the sole overnight shelter, many homeless persons in the desert city of Palm Springs were left to deal with the heat on their own.

One-third of Americans are under heat alerts as blistering weather spreads

Homeless resident John Summers crossed a dry riverbank on Thursday in search of shelter at an encampment.

Basically, I just drink as much water as I can and hit shade. And, you know, wherever they'll let you in, like the mall," he added.

According to Roman Ruiz, the city's coordinator for homeless services, homeless people struggle every day merely for a space with enough shade.

"I really don't understand how someone can pull it off," he said. "I'm really sorry, but there isn't much I can do."

In other places, notably in desert regions, officials prepared to repurpose public libraries, elder centers, and police station lobby spaces into cooling facilities.

You may also like: Taiwan's Domestically Developed Meteorological Satellite