Fact Check: "Nearly 150 million Americans face extreme heat warnings this weekend."
What We Know
The claim that nearly 150 million Americans are under extreme heat warnings is supported by several sources. According to a report from CBS News, more than 150 million Americans are currently under the highest-level extreme heat alerts due to a significant heat wave affecting the country. This aligns with data from the National Weather Service, which indicates that high temperatures and humidity are contributing to widespread heat risks across various regions, particularly in the West and East coasts of the United States (NASA Earth Observatory).
Additionally, the Biden-Harris Administration has acknowledged the increasing frequency and intensity of heat waves, emphasizing that millions of Americans are impacted by extreme heat events (White House Fact Sheet). The National Integrated Heat Health Information System (NIHHIS) also serves as a key resource for understanding the health risks associated with extreme heat (Heat.gov).
Analysis
The claim is substantiated by credible sources, including government reports and news articles. The CBS News report specifically states that over 150 million Americans are under extreme heat alerts, which directly supports the claim. Furthermore, the NASA Earth Observatory provides a broader context, detailing how extreme heat has affected various regions and emphasizing the severity of the situation.
However, it is important to note that the exact number of individuals affected can fluctuate based on real-time weather conditions and advisories. For instance, while the claim refers to a specific weekend, the numbers reported may vary slightly as new data comes in and as weather conditions change. The AP News report indicates that nearly 200 million people are under various weather advisories, which includes heat advisories but also encompasses other severe weather conditions like floods.
The sources used are generally reliable, with government and reputable news organizations providing the information. However, the potential for slight variations in the reported numbers should be considered, as these figures can change rapidly with ongoing weather developments.
Conclusion
Verdict: Partially True
The claim that nearly 150 million Americans face extreme heat warnings this weekend is largely accurate, as multiple credible sources confirm that over 150 million people are indeed under extreme heat alerts. However, the context of the claim—specifically the timing and the potential for fluctuations in the number of individuals affected—suggests that while the claim is true, it may not capture the full scope of the situation as conditions evolve.
Sources
- HEAT.gov - National Integrated Heat Health Information System
- FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Takes Action to Protect ...
- Extreme Heat Hammers U.S. Coasts
- 60% of the US population under extreme weather advisories | AP News
- Heat wave: Over 70 million in US under alerts | AP News
- Maps show heat wave forecast across much of U.S. Here's when it starts ...
