Hot weather with high humidity is covering a series of states in the Central and Eastern United States. It is estimated that this heat wave could affect nearly 200 million people in the US.
As of July 20, temperatures in Boston have reached 39 degrees Celsius and are expected to rise to 40 degrees Celsius on July 21. The New York heat index has also surpassed 38 degrees Celsius and is expected to increase to 43 degrees Celsius in the coming days.
Many in the areas are facing extreme temperatures this weekend, and cities have opened shelters for people to cool down. All outdoor events scheduled to be held this weekend have been canceled. People are advised to stay indoors and only go out when absolutely necessary.
Many took advantage of the opportunity to earn extra money by selling cooling water bottles when stopping at red lights in Washington. In New York, the city decided to open beaches and swimming pools later than usual, increasing emergency hot spots on the road. In Philadelphia, swimming pools and parks are open to the public for free to avoid the heat.