Millions of people across the United States are bracing for a scorching weekend as an intense heat wave engulfs both the West and East Coasts. According to the National Weather Service, approximately 115 million individuals in cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, Las Vegas, Raleigh, Washington, D.C., and New York City are expected to endure "extremely dangerous heat" on Saturday.

The West Coast, in particular, is being hit hard by this relentless heat wave due to the presence of a strong upper ridge, which has resulted in a widespread and long-lasting heatwave. Temperature records are expected to be tied or broken over the weekend, with coastal areas and parts of the Great Basin experiencing highs in the high 90s to the 110s. The National Weather Service has issued warnings, heat advisories, and excessive heat watches for these areas, emphasizing the potential life-threatening consequences of not taking the extreme temperatures seriously.

Already, a new all-time record temperature was reported on Friday in Palm Springs, California, where the mercury soared to a blistering 124 degrees Fahrenheit, surpassing the previous record of 123 degrees. Furthermore, several locations including Fresno, Portland, Phoenix, Raleigh, Orlando, and Galveston are forecasted to potentially break temperature records on Saturday. Sunday's record watch includes Las Vegas, Reno, Portland, Tucson, Orlando, and El Paso. These unprecedented temperatures, combined with record warm overnight conditions, raise concerns about heat stress for individuals lacking proper cooling and hydration.

As the West Coast grapples with the heat wave's impact, the East Coast is also experiencing higher-than-average temperatures, with cities expecting highs in the 80s and 90s. When factoring in humidity, it will feel more like 100 to 111 degrees. Heat advisories have been issued from New York down to the Alabama coast, including Charleston, where heat index values up to 112 degrees are possible. Newark, New Jersey, has likewise issued an excessive heat advisory, urging residents to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Amid these extreme conditions, Oregon's Governor, Tina Kotek, declared an extreme heat emergency, voicing concerns about the dangers posed to vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and outdoor workers. The state is set to experience high temperatures throughout the weekend and into next week.

The scorching heat, coupled with dry and windy conditions, also increases the risk of wildfires in parts of southern Idaho on Saturday and southern Utah on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.

Authorities across the country are urging residents to prioritize their well-being by remaining cool, staying hydrated, and checking on the welfare of friends, family, and neighbors. It is crucial for individuals to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from the potential health risks associated with this extreme heat wave.

As the heatwave continues to affect millions across the country, meteorologists are monitoring the situation closely, and it is recommended that people stay informed through official weather updates and adhere to safety guidelines to stay safe in these challenging weather conditions.