"Storms Offer Relief from Heat Wave, but New One Looms in the West"

A heat wave is peaking in parts of the South and Mississippi Valley, while another heat wave is building in the West, putting over 70 million people under heat alerts. Severe thunderstorms and heavy rain are expected to bring some relief from the heat in the Central Plains, Ohio Valley, and mid-Atlantic, but also pose the risk of damaging storms and power outages. The South continues to experience oppressive heat, with temperatures nearing or exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, the West, including Las Vegas and Phoenix, is bracing for excessive heat warnings with temperatures projected to soar above 110 degrees. Officials urge people to take precautions during heat waves to prevent heat-related illnesses.