Millions of people in Mexico, Central America, and parts of the U.S. South are enduring sweltering temperatures as an unprecedented heat wave engulfs the region. The extreme heat, caused by a phenomenon known as a "heat dome," has led to strained energy grids, wildlife deaths, and concerns for the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season.

Meteorologists attribute the oppressive conditions to a strong high-pressure system centered over the southern Gulf of Mexico and northern Central America. This heat dome has prevented clouds from forming, resulting in prolonged periods of sunshine and scorching temperatures. The effects are further exacerbated by the global warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels.

The high temperatures have spread across the Gulf of Mexico and reached parts of the United States, including Texas and Florida. This comes as many in Texas remain without power after recent thunderstorms. According to Shawn Bhatti, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Miami, warm, moist air from the tropics has been transported northward, contributing to the unusually warm conditions.

South Florida, in particular, has experienced record-breaking heat. On May 19, Miami International Airport recorded a daily high of 96 degrees Fahrenheit, surpassing the average temperatures of this time of year by nearly 10 degrees. These soaring temperatures raise concerns about ocean water temperatures and their impact on the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season.

Experts warn that the transition from El Nino to La Nina patterns could lead to increased tropical cyclone activity in the Gulf of Mexico and the North Atlantic. Andrew Kruczkiewicz, a senior researcher at the Columbia Climate School, explains that the extreme heat adds another risk factor for tropical storms, as they thrive in warm ocean temperatures. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts an 85 percent chance of an above-average storm activity in the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season.

Mexico has been particularly affected by the scorching heat, with more than two dozen deaths reported since March. The situation is expected to worsen in the coming days, with a heat wave that is projected to be one of the longest and most alarming of the year. Record-breaking temperatures have been recorded in over 46 locations in Mexico, with the capital city, Mexico City, facing extreme heat and pollution.

Disturbingly, the heat wave has also taken a toll on wildlife. Scientists have reported over 130 howler monkey deaths in the southeast jungles, along with increased bird mortality in the northern parts of the country. These deaths are attributed to the combination of extreme heat and other factors.

The effects of the heat wave extend beyond wildlife and human health. With below-average rainfall this year, lakes and dams are drying up, leading to water shortages. Protests have erupted across the country, with some police agents blocking traffic to highlight the lack of water in their barracks. Hydroelectric dams' low water levels have also contributed to power blackouts, and even convenience stores have had to limit ice purchases due to the scarcity of water.

The Mexican Weather Service warns of another heat wave in June, although it is expected to be shorter and less severe compared to the current one. Nearby countries, such as Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, Dominican Republic, and Haiti, are also grappling with abnormally high temperatures attributed to this area of high-pressure.

As the heat wave persists, authorities and communities are grappling with the severe consequences, highlighting the urgent need for climate action and sustainable practices to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events.