The US National Weather Service released a statement on its website on the 2nd, saying that record-breaking high temperatures will continue to blanket most of the central and eastern United States, with the maximum heat index reaching 115 degrees Fahrenheit (about 46 degrees Celsius).
Approximately 163 million people are affected by the heat.
On that day, major cities such as Boston, New York, Washington, Pittsburgh, and Atlanta all faced the highest level of heat risk. Meteorological authorities predict that high temperatures in most areas will continue until the 4th.
The heat is also increasing power supply pressure in many regions of the US. The US Department of Energy requires many areas to activate backup power sources such as diesel and natural gas generators to reduce reliance on the public power grid.
The high temperatures have also affected rail transport in the northeastern US, with multiple trains canceled and some trains operating at reduced speeds.