A heatwave warning was issued in the United States on Saturday, affecting about 44 million Americans in the Rocky Mountains and northern plains, where temperatures are expected to exceed 38 degrees Celsius.

The National Weather Service warned that temperatures, far above seasonal averages, could reach historic record levels over the weekend, especially in Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah.

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Peak temperatures

Temperatures are expected to peak on Sunday, ranging between 38 and 43 degrees Celsius in several northern states, levels that are 8 to 13 degrees above seasonal averages. The weather service indicated that the 'dangerous heatwave' will later extend to the western and central parts of the country next week, affecting millions of people, as well as hampering efforts to combat the massive wildfires currently sweeping through Colorado and Utah.

World Cup

Extreme heat is also expected on Saturday in the southeastern United States, including Florida, coinciding with the quarterfinal match between England and Norway in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At 5 p.m. local time, the kickoff time, the heat index in Miami is expected to reach 43 degrees due to humidity, noting that the stadium is not air-conditioned.

Heatwave

This heatwave follows a previous one in the eastern United States in early July, which approached 40 degrees in cities like New York and Philadelphia, and caused significant damage to World Cup stadium turf.

Heatwaves are becoming more intense and frequent around the world due to climate change, primarily caused by burning coal, oil, and gas.