My kids and teacher husband are officially on summer break (yes, NYC public schools really do go later than most), which means we’ve escaped to Maine for a week of family, fresh air, and a much slower pace. The Supreme Court, however, isn’t easing into vacation mode. Several major rulings, including this biggie, are expected this week. Meanwhile, the FIFA World Cup knockout stage is underway, and professional fútbol watchers already have a favorite to win it all. Could two soccer legends meet one last time? The odds are slim, but never say never. Wimbledon begins today, too, with a highly anticipated Serena Williams return (and yes, Naomi Osaka’s tournament outfit is already up for grabs). And with Taylor and Travis’s wedding potentially happening this weekend in NYC (rumored performers and all), I’m especially happy to enjoy the festivities from afar. Now, let's get to the headlines...
— Marina Carver / Senior Editor / Brooklyn, NY
US News
The Summer of Deadly Heatwaves
What's going on: If your phone hasn’t already alerted you, the first week of July will bring extreme heat to much of the central and eastern US. Certain areas can expect temperatures in the 90s and 100s, and the “feels like” reading could top 120 degrees. They’re calling it a “heat dome,” because “hell on earth” was too on the nose. A heat dome forms when high-pressure systems push warm air towards the earth’s surface and trap it there. These conditions don’t just make life miserable — they can drive up heat-related deaths, droughts, and wildfires. Europe is currently sweating through its own heat dome. A study published on Friday found the region's heatwave is the worst on record.
How do we deal?: Communities are increasingly having to treat heatwaves like hurricanes, blizzards, and tornadoes: as a recurring public safety threat. Many parts of the world are literally not built for extreme heat (and no, giving everyone in France an air conditioner won’t change that). Experts say adapting will require new housing designed for extreme temps, better power grids, more tree cover, and widespread public cooling centers. In the meantime, public health officials recommend taking heat alerts seriously, staying hydrated, cooling your body temp, and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day. And, check on your neighbors.
