India, June 21 -- An intense and widespread heat wave is currently sweeping across the United States, putting nearly two-thirds of the population under extreme heat alerts. According to the National Weather Service, over 200 million people are expected to experience temperatures soaring into triple digits this week. States across the Central Plains, including Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, and Colorado, are already feeling the impact. The Midwest and parts of the Northeast- New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New Jersey are next in line, with temperatures likely to peak over the weekend.

High humidity is compounding discomfort and health risks, particularly for newborns, the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. ...