United States: A heat wave leaves at least 25 dead and triggers widespread weather alerts across much of the country

A persistent heat wave in the United States has killed at least 25 people in a week, while nearly 40 million people remain under heat wave alerts, according to US media citing local authorities and weather services.

According to NBC News, New Jersey has reported 22 suspected heat-related deaths. Illinois has reported one death, and Mississippi two more. Local authorities are continuing their investigations to confirm the link between these deaths and the extreme temperatures affecting several regions of the country.

The National Weather Service (NWS) also warned that severe thunderstorms could hit the East Coast through Monday. These storms could bring destructive winds, hail, and the risk of localized flash flooding in several densely populated areas.

Flood warnings are currently in effect for approximately 34 million people, from Delaware to Connecticut, as well as New York City. Forecasters are predicting rainfall of up to 7,6 centimeters in some areas, increasing the risk of urban flooding.

Meanwhile, temperatures remain particularly high across much of the country. The heat index, which combines temperature and humidity, is expected to reach between 37 and 40°C in several major East Coast cities, including Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Jacksonville.

Weather officials warn that while a gradual drop in temperatures is expected in the coming days along the East Coast, dangerous heat conditions are likely to persist in some areas. Alerts have been issued for California and Arizona, where temperatures could reach as high as 45,5°C in some zones.

In New York, health officials reported more than 378 emergency room visits related to heat-related illnesses. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant in the face of extreme weather conditions that continue to affect a large portion of the United States.