Americans are being advised to avoid drinking coffee, with forecasters warning of “dangerously hot conditions” across parts of Nevada, California, and Arizona.
Why It Matters
The National Weather Service (NWS) warns that heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat events.
What To Know
It is generally recommended to avoid drinking coffee in hot weather due to its diuretic effect, which can lead to dehydration. Caffeine, found in coffee, can increase fluid loss through urination, making it harder for your body to stay hydrated, especially when you are already sweating more in the heat.
Some parts of south central Arizona were expected to see temperatures up to 115 degrees Fahrenheit. The agency warned that overexposure to major heat can cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion to develop. Without intervention, it can lead to heat stroke, it added.
Triple-digit temperatures were also expected in Lake Mead and its surrounding areas, with the service cautioning the these were dangerously hot conditions for early June. Death Valley National Park could see temperatures up to 120, according to the NWS.
“Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles,” read the extreme heat warning, which also applied to a portion of northwest Arizona, southeast California, and southern Nevada. “Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.”
A post from the NWS’ Las Vegas office advised people in affected areas not to drink alcohol or caffeine, as they speed up dehydration. It also said heavy foods should be avoided, as meals high in protein can also speed up dehydration.
The NWS noted that these warnings indicate dangerously hot weather, even by local norms. “Actions should be taken to lessen the impact of the extreme heat,” it said.
What People Are Saying
AccuWeather meteorologist Chad Merrill told Newsweek that the Lake Mead area would see high temperatures between 107-112 degrees Sunday and Monday.
“Tuesday’s high will be 105-108 degrees. Wednesday will reach 107-115 degrees. Thursday and Friday will reach 105-112 degrees,” Merrill said. “Temperatures will then drop several degrees next weekend with a more notable cooling trend Sunday, June 22-Tuesday, June 24.”
The National Weather Service forecast office, Las Vegas, said on X, formerly Twitter, Saturday: “Above-normal temps continue through the weekend & most of next week. Extreme Heat Warning in effect for Sunday (Father’s Day). This heat coupled with very dry conditions will increase fire danger. Be extra cautious if recreating with sparks or flame.”
The NWS said on X, Wednesday: “During hot and humid weather, your body’s ability to cool itself is challenged in ways you may not expect. When your body heats too rapidly, or when too much fluid or salt is lost through dehydration or sweating, you may experience a heat-related illness. Stay weather-ready by learning the symptoms of extreme heat exposure and the appropriate responses.”
What Happens Next
At the time of writing, the latest extreme heat warnings were set to remain in effect until 8 p.m. on Monday.
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