Some 44 million Americans were under a heat wave warning on Saturday as temperatures in the Rocky Mountains and northern plains of the United States were expected to hit 110F (43C) over the weekend.<\/p>\n
The temperatures, well above seasonal averages, could break records, the National Weather Service warned. Salt Lake City, in particular, was expected to experience unprecedented heat.<\/p>\n
“Dangerous heat is expected to unfold through the weekend with triple digit highs and potential for daily maximum temperature records both days,” the service’s Weather Prediction Center said Saturday.<\/p>\n
On Sunday, the hottest day, the mercury was expected to reach between 100F (38C) and 110F (43C) in several northern states including Montana and North Dakota.<\/p>\n
The blistering heat also has hindered efforts to fight massive wildfires raging in Colorado and Utah.<\/p>\n
The weather was also broiling the southeastern United States, including Miami, which was hosting Saturday’s England-Norway World Cup quarterfinal match.<\/p>\n
Just a week ago, the eastern United States was gripped by another heat wave that pushed temperatures to around 104F (40C) in New York and Philadelphia.<\/p>\n
Around the world, heat waves are becoming more common and intense due to climate change, primarily caused by the burning of coal, oil and gas and emission of greenhouse gases.<\/p>\n