Record Heatwave Grips US: Discover How Fil-Ams Are Keeping Their Cool

As the sun shines with unforgiving intensity, a scorching heatwave has reigned on the US, leaving a trail of sweltering heat affecting Americans and Filipino Americans alike.

This blistering incident, called the “heat dome,” has descended over western states, hovering a blanket of hot air that has increased thermometers to their high limits. The effects of these intense heat can lead to dire medical conditions.

Amid this heatwave ordeal is Death Valley, now considered as the hottest place on Earth. It is situated along Central California’s border with Nevada.

On Sunday, July 16, the National Weather Service recorded an alarming temperature of 128 degrees Fahrenheit in Death Valley. Just nearby, Las Vegas is battling its own heatwave, with temperatures reaching a scorching 115 degrees Fahrenheit that day, also felt by the Sin City at 117 degrees.

19/7/23 BLISTERING HEAT: US, EUROPE, CHINA JAPAN
Ignored Unliveable World
End Fossil Fuels or they will be the end of us#heatwave #globalwarming #climatechange pic.twitter.com/aFJ1fcZOLd

— Peter D Carter (@PCarterClimate) July 20, 2023

Facing such sweltering conditions, residents in affected states are finding their own relief from the continuous heatwave. Mary Ann Hernandez, a Filipino mom from Las Vegas, expressed her priority of keeping her children protected from too much heat.

She said, she “makes sure she and her two boys get proper air-conditioning at home.” Many other Fil-Ams in the affected regions consume more water to stay hydrated.

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One Filipino expressed his concern. Oscar Pagan, a long-time resident of Las Vegas, shared his observations on this worsening heat.

He said, “It’s getting hotter and hotter every year.” His concern resonates with the increasing problems of many as extreme weather incidents become more intense and frequent due to climate change, as reported by TFC News.

US hospitals use ice-filled body bags to cool overheated patients https://t.co/Ty24CWB17U

— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) July 18, 2023

Tips to Beat the Heatwave

While the US is in the midst of the unforgiving heatwave, there are still ways you can cope with it. Here are some essentials you can try to stay safe and beat the rising temperatures.

Stay Hydrated at All Times: As cliche as it may sound, this can really save your life. In the meantime, avoid alcohol consumption and caffeine if you can.

Seek for Shades and Stay in Cool Places: Find refuge under a tree or any available shade whenever you’re outdoors, and the heat is on.

Avoid Intense Activities: If working out, do it in the afternoons or evenings.

Pet Safety: Don’t forget to look after your furr babies during this extreme heat. Keep them indoors and give them fresh water.

Fil-Am doctor Dr. Audrey Sue Cruz also gave her advice: To combat the heatwave, she said, “[Maintain] a healthy diet, make sure that we are not dehydrated, and make sure we are eating enough veggies, fruits to make sure that our body is healthy enough to withstand the heat.”

As the heatwave continues to test your patience, communities should adopt these safety measures and look out for one another as heatstroke and other conditions are prevalent during these times.

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