The heat wave poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those without access to air conditioning. Over 100 million people are under a Level 3 ('major') or Level 4 ('extreme') heat risk, spanning from the Deep South to the Northeast. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Urban areas are especially at risk due to the heat island effect, which prevents temperatures from dropping significantly overnight. Emergency room visits for heat-related illnesses are expected to rise during this period.