A brutal heatwave that swept through the United States over the July 4th weekend has claimed at least 25 lives, primarily in the state of New Jersey, following a week of record-breaking temperatures in at least 18 cities across the nation.
The victims in New Jersey, aged between 30 and 80, were mostly found in homes lacking air conditioning. Some were also discovered deceased on the streets and in parked vehicles in the central and northern regions of the state.
Initially reported as 19 deaths on Saturday afternoon, the toll quickly rose to 22 and then 25 within a few hours.
A spokesperson for the state’s Department of Health warned that the death toll "may rise."
Record-Breaking Temperatures Nationwide
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill described the situation as severe: "This weather is extreme and dangerous... and this is the most intense heatwave we've experienced in over 14 years."
Historic temperature records were shattered across multiple locations in the country. LaGuardia Airport in New York City reached 104 °F (40 °C) on Thursday, July 2, surpassing its previous record of 101 °F (38.3 °C) set in 1966.
Philadelphia saw temperatures soar to 103 °F (39.4 °C), tying a record from 1901, while Central Park hit 98.6 °F (37 °C), its highest since 2012. Other affected cities included Washington D.C. and Jacksonville, Florida.
In all, more than 160 million Americans were under extreme heat advisories, and nearly a million homes and businesses were left without power.
Ongoing Weather Threats
By Monday, temperatures started to ease along the East Coast, with forecasts predicting highs between 70 and 90 °F. However, the Southwest, particularly Arizona and California, remains under extreme heat conditions until at least Thursday.
Meanwhile, a new threat looms over the Northeast, placing about 40 million people from Delaware to Connecticut under alerts for flooding and severe weather. Storms threaten to cause flash flooding in Philadelphia and New York City.
New York authorities urged residents to exercise caution due to heavy rain expected through Monday and Tuesday.
In Ohio, tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings were issued, with strong winds already causing visible damage in the Birdman area.
Impact on Independence Day Celebrations
The heatwave, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States' founding, forced the cancellation or modification of numerous Independence Day events across the country.
Heat is historically the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S., and experts warn that extreme summers are becoming increasingly frequent and severe.
Governor Sherrill encouraged residents to call 2-1-1 to find cooling centers available in New Jersey, while health officials do not rule out the possibility of the death toll rising further.
Frequently Asked Questions About the U.S. Heatwave
How many people died due to the heatwave in the U.S.?
At least 25 people have died due to the heatwave, with the majority of fatalities occurring in New Jersey.
Which areas were most affected by the heatwave?
The heatwave affected several states, including New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, as well as Washington D.C. and Jacksonville, Florida, with record-breaking temperatures.
What measures are being taken in response to the heatwave?
Authorities are urging residents to seek shelter in cooling centers and take precautions, while also preparing for potential flooding and severe weather in the Northeast.