By Natalia Rueda 
Las Vegas, popularly known as “Sin City” for its dazzling lights, bustling casinos and extravagant shows, has broken a troubling record due to an exacerbated heat wave. Over the weekend, the city recorded a temperature of 49°C (120°F), a temperature never before seen in its history. This news has sparked alarm and concern among residents, as well as raising questions about the effects of global warming.
The extreme heat plaguing the United States has been attributed to the scorching temperature in Las Vegas. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued heat alerts and warnings for several states, including Nevada, California, Arizona and Utah, as temperatures are expected to reach dangerously high levels in the coming days.
For Nevada, where Las Vegas is located, this will be the longest period of extreme heat ever experienced, with 11 consecutive days above 43°C. Meanwhile, Death Valley National Park, known as the hottest place in the country, is forecast to reach a staggering 54°C (129°F). This is a major cause for concern, as this level of heat can have detrimental effects on human health and potentially prove fatal.
‼️HISTORIC
— Extreme Temperatures Around The World (@extremetemps) July 7, 2024
Unbelievable 120F LAS VEGAS pulverized its all time records
Up to 128.9F in the Death Valley🌡️
Most important records:
118 Twentynine all time tied
118 Dagget Barstow all time tied
117 Boulder City all time tied
104 Coquille all time tied yest.
114 Lancaster monthly pic.twitter.com/fnIkKJFpuJ
In addition to the impact on human health, the extreme heat is also affecting the environment. As the heat wave persists, experts are concerned that wildfires could intensify, putting even more lives at risk.
In light of this, officials have urged Las Vegas residents and visitors to take the necessary precautions, such as staying hydrated and limiting outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day. It is also highly recommended to seek shelter in air-conditioned spaces.
This dangerous heat wave serves as a reminder of the pressing issue of climate change. As temperatures continue to rise and extreme weather events become more frequent and aggressive.