Central and western states brace for dangerous heatwave
CBSN
Dangerous heat and elevated fire weather conditions are expected across parts of central and western states throughout the weekend, according to the National Weather Service. The triple digit temperatures pose an increased risk for heat illnesses, officials say.
In Texas, calls for help due to heat-related issues increased by 120.4% in 2022 during the months of May 1 to July 12 when compared to the same time period in 2021, according to the regional emergency medical services agency MedStar. Transports to medical facilities were up 108% during that same timeframe in 2022 in comparison to the year prior, with an 80.4% increase of serious injuries.
MedStar paramedic supervisor John Hamilton told CBS News congressional correspondent Kris Van Cleave that he's never seen so many heat-related calls.