A sweaty Fourth of July ahead for the US as extreme heat descends on 20 states

This Fourth of July is shaping up to be particularly uncomfortable for many Americans as a widespread heat wave impacts nearly 20 states from the East Coast to the Midwest. With Independence Day festivities and the World Cup's peak coinciding with this extreme heat, officials are warning people to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure. The National Weather Service's extreme heat warnings highlight the urgency of taking precautions, underscoring the potential health risks posed by such intense temperatures. This situation matters because it highlights the growing frequency and severity of heatwaves linked to climate change.