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North America Brace for Extreme Heatwave Amid Global Trend

As July commences, a significant and potentially dangerous heatwave is poised to intensify across a vast expanse of the United States. Forecasters are predicting a period of extreme weather characterised by scorching daytime temperatures, oppressive humidity, and notably, stifling overnight heat. Approximately 120 million individuals nationwide are currently under an extreme heat warning, coinciding with preparations for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday weekend. This anticipated severe weather event is not isolated, with much of Canada, particularly Ontario, also grappling with intense heat, following an unprecedented early summer heatwave that recently shattered numerous temperature records across Europe.

The primary cause of these extreme conditions in the US is a meteorological phenomenon known as a “heat dome.” This occurs when a high-pressure system becomes stationary, effectively trapping hot air over a particular area and causing it to heat up further. The peak intensity of this heat dome is projected to first affect the Midwest and Mississippi Valley through Thursday, subsequently shifting eastward into the Ohio Valley and along the East Coast as the long holiday weekend approaches.

Temperatures are expected to reach between 35 and 40.6 degrees Celsius. However, the high humidity will significantly elevate the “feels like” temperature, or heat index, which could soar to between 38 and 46 degrees Celsius. Meteorologists warn that daily temperature records are highly likely to be broken on Thursday and Friday, with a strong possibility of some monthly and even all-time records being surpassed.

In response to the escalating threat, officials are issuing urgent advice to residents in affected regions. Recommendations include limiting outdoor activities, ensuring adequate hydration by consuming plenty of water, and seeking access to air conditioning or designated cooling centres. Cities are implementing swift measures; for example, New York City has activated a heat emergency plan, opening hundreds of cooling centres across the metropolis. Similarly, Detroit has made a dozen recreation centres available with air conditioning for its community.

Adding another layer of concern, this intense weather could also impact upcoming World Cup matches scheduled to be held in the US. Some games might experience heat indexes exceeding the safety threshold, which the global players’ union Fifpro has deemed too dangerous for play. This could affect both athletes and fans travelling to stadiums in locations such as Texas and Atlanta. In Philadelphia, organisers are proactively moving parts of its World Cup Fan Festival into cooled tents to mitigate the risks. The increasing frequency and intensity of such global heatwaves underscore a critical need for societies to adapt to a hotter climate in the long term.

1. What is the main purpose of this article?

• A.To detail the history of heatwaves in North America.
• B.To inform readers about an impending extreme heatwave in the US and its wider implications.
• C.To provide travel advice for fans attending the World Cup.
• D.To explain the scientific causes of global warming.

2. According to the article, what is the primary cause of the extreme temperatures in the United States?

• A.An unusual ocean current.
• B.Excessive rainfall causing humidity.
• C.A high-pressure system trapping hot air.
• D.Forest fires generating smoke and heat.

3. What can be inferred about the authorities’ response to the heatwave?

• A.They are taking proactive and serious measures to protect public safety.
• B.They believe the public is adequately prepared for the extreme heat.
• C.They are only concerned about the impact on major sporting events.
• D.They expect the heatwave to subside quickly without much intervention.

4. Which word best describes the overall tone of the article regarding the heatwave?

• A.Optimistic
• B.Indifferent
• C.Sarcastic
• D.Cautionary

5. In the fifth paragraph, the word “mitigate” is used. What does “mitigate the risks” mean in this context?

• A.To increase the risks.
• B.To reduce the severity of the risks.
• C.To ignore the risks completely.
• D.To predict when the risks will occur.