Las Vegas has reached an unprecedented milestone in its weather history, recording its highest temperature ever amid an ongoing, widespread heatwave along the US West Coast. On Sunday, the city saw temperatures soar to 49°C (120°F), surpassing its previous record of 46°C (115°F) set in 2007. This record-breaking heat is part of a severe heatwave affecting approximately 36 million people under an excessive heat warning.

Temperatures across the affected regions are running as much as 20 degrees above normal for this time of year. About one million people are also under excessive heat watches, particularly in eastern Oregon, northeastern Nevada, and southwestern Idaho. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings about increased wildfire risks due to the hot, dry, and windy conditions.

Death Valley National Park in eastern California, notorious for its extreme temperatures, recorded a blistering 53.3°C (128°F) over the weekend. Tragically, a motorcyclist succumbed to heat exposure while another individual from the same group was hospitalized for severe heat illness. The group of six motorcyclists had been riding through the Badwater Basin area, where the remaining members received treatment at the scene.

This alarming spike in temperatures aligns with broader climate trends. According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, the past 12 months have all exceeded the critical threshold of 1.5 degrees of global warming. This consistent rise in global temperatures underscores the urgent need for climate action to mitigate the impacts of such extreme weather events.

The record temperatures in Las Vegas and the deadly conditions in Death Valley highlight the severity of the ongoing heatwave affecting the US West Coast. As millions endure excessive heat warnings and the threat of wildfires looms, the situation serves as a stark reminder of the far-reaching consequences of climate change. Immediate and sustained efforts are essential to address this escalating crisis and protect vulnerable populations from its most devastating effects.