A scorching heatwave continues to sweep across the United States, causing an alarming increase in heat-related deaths. Over the course of July, at least 28 fatalities have been reported in the West as temperatures continue to soar, leaving millions of residents in nine Western states under heat alerts.

In Santa Clara County, California, the Office of the Medical Examiner-Coroner has recorded 18 heat-related deaths in the county within the first 10 days of the month. The county, including its largest city, San Jose, has experienced relentless heatwaves, with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The medical examiner's office confirmed that two individuals who died from heat exposure were unhoused, while one was enrolled in a transitional housing program.

The dire situation is particularly affecting the homeless population in Santa Clara County, with at least six of the 18 victims over the age of 50. Advocates are highlighting the desperate conditions faced by the unhoused individuals, emphasizing the urgent need for assistance.

Tragic incidents have also unfolded in other parts of the West. Death Valley National Park reported the death of a motorcyclist from heat exposure, as temperatures reached a staggering 127 degrees. Sacramento also experienced a heatstroke-related death when temperatures peaked at 113 degrees.

Arizona has also been hit hard, with two suspected heat-related deaths reported. A 4-month-old infant faced a heat-related emergency during a boating trip in Lake Havasu, where the temperature climbed to 120 degrees, while a 10-year-old boy fell ill and later passed away after hiking with his family in Phoenix's South Mountain Park and Preserve.

Oregon has witnessed six suspected heat-related deaths since July 5, prompting Governor Tina Kotek to declare a statewide emergency. Multnomah County has confirmed three fatalities.

As the West continues to endure the sweltering conditions, a record-breaking trend has emerged. At least 19 cities, including Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City, have shattered their all-time high temperature records. Las Vegas, in particular, has experienced unprecedented heat, with temperatures exceeding 115 degrees for five consecutive days. The city is on track to break its record of 10 consecutive days of 110-degree temperatures or higher. Salt Lake City, too, faces the possibility of breaking its daily heat record for the second day in a row.

While the East Coast has briefly experienced relief thanks to severe weather, the reprieve will be short-lived. The scorching temperatures are set to return, with forecasters predicting temperatures in the 90s from Boston to Washington, D.C. Combining humidity and the heat index, it will feel above 100 degrees along the East Coast for the foreseeable future.

The extreme heat and devastating consequences are a stark reminder of the urgent need for precautions and assistance during these dangerous weather conditions. It is crucial to prioritize the welfare of vulnerable populations and provide support to those affected by this unprecedented heatwave.

As authorities continue to monitor the situation and issue heat alerts, residents are urged to stay hydrated, seek shelter in air-conditioned spaces, and remain vigilant during this dangerous period of extreme heat.