Heat wave scorches western U.S., spreading eastward

More than 85 million people in the Southwest are under heat alerts as a weeks-long heat wave intensifies, with dangerously high temperatures expected to continue throughout the weekend. The Western United States will experience temperatures 10-20 degrees above normal, with some areas reaching record-breaking temperatures. Wildfires have also been reported in Southern California. Heat advisories are in place in Texas and Alabama, while sultry conditions persist in the south-central US and South Florida. Concerns about power outages and health risks have arisen, as heat-related illnesses can be fatal. Scientists warn that 2023 could be the Earth's hottest year on record.