Read, Watch or Listen

A severe heatwave grips the US Midwest, forcing residents to seek refuge in water sources like splash pads and causing a rise in drownings. Cities break temperature records, and emergency services activate heat relief plans. The heat is exacerbated by urban heat islands and climate change, impacting both urban and rural communities. Farmers face unpredictable weather, including intense flooding and droughts, while climate activists highlight methane leaks from old gas wells as a contributing factor. The Trump administration's policies, including logging national forests and NOAA budget cuts, further complicate the situation, jeopardizing food production and accurate weather forecasting.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.