Scorching heat wave engulfs Southern states for entire week

An intense heat wave continues to scorch the southern United States, with little relief in sight. Cities such as New Orleans, Dallas, Jacksonville, Phoenix, Orlando, Miami, and Houston are experiencing heat indexes as high as 105 to 115 degrees. Excessive heat warnings and advisories are in effect across Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia, affecting over 65 million people. Record-breaking temperatures have been recorded in several cities, and extended streaks of extreme heat are ongoing. The heat is expected to persist throughout the week, with Texas, Louisiana, southern Mississippi, and southern New Mexico being the hotspots. The outlook for the next two weeks indicates above-normal temperatures across the southern United States.