More than a million people are without electricity in the sweltering heat

Although Texas residents are used to extreme heat, this time the situation is different. Apart from the discomfort they feel due to the temperature, they also have to deal with the lack of electricity. In fact, hundreds of thousands of Texans have been without power since Beryl crossed the state last Monday.

An overview of Texas temperatures

This extreme heat is caused by a stagnant heat dome in the southwest of the country. The mercury will fluctuate between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius for the coming week, especially in the Texas city of Houston, which is particularly affected by the beryl line.

Depending on the day, feelings (heat index) is also expected to approach or exceed 40. In comparison, according to the Canadian Humidex, these feelings are around 45 and above.

Vulnerable people at risk

These blackouts prevent Texans from using their air conditioning or other appliances. But it causes other losses as well. For example, food in a refrigerator or freezer cannot stay fresh without electricity, and even less so when the thermometer indicates a temperature approaching 35°C.

This loss of electricity makes it difficult or impossible to get food, gasoline or medicine in some areas. The reason? Some businesses are closed and therefore inaccessible.

In addition to closing businesses, the oppressive heat has spiked emergency room visits. So some hospitals are overwhelmed with vulnerable patients. These people suffer from health problems and cannot get regular treatment. The situation is the same in old age homes.

In collaboration with Kevin Cloutier, meteorologist.

See also: Outlook for the rest of summer in Quebec