Heat Waves
- Sunaina Naik
- Jul 28, 2021
- 2 min read
Multiple western states across the US have suffered intense heat waves this summer. In fact, a high of nearly 130 degrees Farenheit was recorded in Death Valley, Nevada. These high temperatures have caused several disasters, such as an increase in animal and human mortality along with severe wildfires. Extreme weather across the states has also brought forth agricultural problems. In Oregon, the heat has damaged and destroyed many of the crops. Dave Dillon, the Executive President of the Oregon Farm Bureau, states that, “-the heat wave also comes on the heels of major market disruptions for agricultural products during the pandemic.” If agricultural problems arise, this will in turn negatively affect the economy.
This deadly heat wave originally passed through Washington state and Oregon, and has also advanced to other western states (such as California and Nevada). One particular wave in Washington and Oregon eliminated about 200 laborers in workhouses primarily due to heat exhaustion. Furthermore, humans are not the only ones suffering. Countless marine animal deaths have also been linked to the rising temperatures in oceans.
Numerous wildfires have been blazing in western states, while destroying the environment and wildlife. The largest wildfires have occurred in Northeastern California and in Southern Oregon. In California, the ‘Beckwourth Complex’, a gigantic blaze, covered nearly 140 square miles with more than 3,000 residents forced to clear out. In Oregon, the ‘Bootleg Fire’ engulfed nearly 240 square miles of land. Several homes and buildings were destroyed and nearly 2,000 houses were located in the evacuation zone. The fire also caused a power outage during this dangerous heat wave, nearly derailing California’s power supply. Overall, many other wildfires occurred in other states, such as in Washington, Idaho, and Nevada, causing destruction to various areas.
These heat waves have proved to be a strenuous and dangerous circumstance for many. Luckily, there are multiple organizations that are holding fundraisers, where people can donate to help out those in areas of peak temperatures. Take action to support the country by contributing to these charity organizations below.
Charities:
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