Las Vegas, known for its scorching summers, is currently enduring a historic heatwave that could break temperature records. The city is on track to experience the most consecutive days over 115F (46C) since record-keeping began in 1937. Meteorologist John Adair, with three decades of experience at the National Weather Service office in southern Nevada, stated that this heatwave is the most extreme in Las Vegas' history.

Tuesday's high temperature in Las Vegas tied the previous record of four straight days above 115F set in July 2005. Forecasters predict that the streak could extend until Friday, setting a new record. The prolonged intense heat poses serious dangers, particularly to vulnerable populations. Health officials have warned that even seemingly healthy individuals can suffer heat-related illnesses due to the extreme conditions.

While hotels and casinos have provided relief with giant AC units, homeless residents and those without access to safe environments face acute danger. In response, emergency cooling centers have been set up at community centers across southern Nevada. Henderson, Nevada, became the first region to deploy "polar pods," which can immerse a medical patient in cold water on the way to the hospital.

The scorching heatwave isn't limited to Las Vegas. Several areas in the US West have reported record-breaking temperatures and fatalities. In Oregon, the city of Portland witnessed record daily temperatures over the weekend, with six deaths suspected to be heat-related. California also experienced a tragic loss as a motorcyclist died in Death Valley national park, renowned for its extreme conditions.

Phoenix, Arizona, recorded a temperature of 116F (46.7C), tying the daily record set in 1958. Triple-digit temperatures were also recorded in Idaho. Reno, Nevada, broke its daily record with a scorching 104F (40C) and is experiencing its longest streak ever of consecutive days above 105F (40.6C).

This heatwave is exacerbating the threat of wildfires across the US West, where a persistent drought has dried out vegetation. In Oregon, the Larch Creek fire quickly grew to over 5 square miles (12 square kilometers) on Tuesday evening, prompting evacuations in Wasco county. Additionally, California firefighters are battling at least 18 wildfires, including the Lake fire in Santa Barbara county, which has led to the evacuation of approximately 200 residences.

The National Weather Service has extended excessive heat warnings across the southwest US until Saturday morning. This alarming trend of extreme heat correlates with global temperature records, as Copernicus, the European climate service, reported that June marked the 13th consecutive month of record-breaking temperatures. The climate crisis, primarily caused by the emission of greenhouse gases from human activities, is intensifying the effects of extreme heat and wildfires.

As the scorching conditions persist, it is crucial for individuals to prioritize their safety, stay hydrated, and seek shelter in cool environments. Authorities are working diligently to mitigate the impact of this unprecedented heatwave, but the long-term solution lies in addressing the underlying causes of climate change.