Relief for southern Californian’s as the heat wave eases by Susan Powell
The heat is finally beginning to ease across southern California after days of temperatures soaring into the 40’sC (104F). At least 25 deaths have been blamed on the extreme heat, which saw temperatures in LA’s San Fernando Valley hit 43C (109F) earlier in the week. Temperatures have since been easing, bringing most places down below 38C (100F) for the first time in over a week.
Power and electricity is beginning to be restored to around 55,000 people who have been without air conditioning and lights for the past two days. Energy officials in California declared an ‘electrical emergency’ last week to reduce the higher than expected power demand as a result of the excessive heat.
Across the other side of the US, residents of the Midwest are bracing themselves for yet more heavy rain. Last month parts of the Midwest endured prolonged heavy rainfall and widespread flooding due to the left over moisture from Tropical Storm Erin. This time it is the leftover moisture from Hurricane Henriette which could spark potentially stormy weather on Friday and Saturday.
