Las Vegas is currently undergoing an intense heatwave that could break the city’s record high of 117 degrees Fahrenheit (47.2 degrees Celsius) this weekend.

Heatwave Details: The National Weather Service highlighted that the current heatwave is far from typical due to its long duration, extreme daytime temperatures, and warm nights.
* The heatwave is expected to continue into next week, as a high-pressure dome moves west from Texas.
* The temperature before noon on Friday already topped 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 C).

Dangers and Response: Hospitals and emergency rooms in the area are already witnessing a rise in heat-related illnesses like severe dehydration and heat exhaustion.
* Regional health officials in Las Vegas launched a new database to report “heat-caused” and “heat-related” deaths, with seven deaths since April 11, and 152 such fatalities in 2021.

Efforts to Cool off: As the heat continues, many indoor establishments are offering relief in cooler temperatures.
* Besides casinos, public libraries, police station lobbies, and other places in Texas and California will be open to the public in part to offer relief from the heat.
* Albuquerque is extending splash pads’ hours and offering free admission to many public pools. Churches and nonprofit groups in Boise, Idaho are providing water, sunscreen, and shelter.

Regional Impact: The heatwave is affecting large parts of the Southwest, not just Las Vegas.
* Phoenix marked its 15th consecutive day of 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43.3 C) or higher temperatures on Friday, putting it on track to beat the longest recorded stretch of such heat from 1974.
* Temperatures are severe in Nevada, Arizona, and California, forecasted to soar past 120 degrees Fahrenheit (48.8 C) during the day and remain in the 90s F (above 32.2 C) overnight.

Fire Risks: The hot, dry conditions are exacerbating the wildfire season, with multiple brush fires started on Friday in Riverside County, southeast of Los Angeles.
* Climate change is cited for “supercharging” such heatwaves, contributing to escalating fire risks.
* The risk of wildfires is also forcing the cancellation of certain events, like planned horseracing at the California State Fair due to concerns for animal safety.

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