The heat wave poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those without access to cooling. Over 100 million people are under Level 3 ('major') or Level 4 ('extreme') heat risk advisories. Prolonged exposure to these conditions can lead to heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Urban areas may experience heightened risks due to the heat island effect, with overnight temperatures struggling to drop below 80 °F (27 °C). The National Weather Service warns that this heat wave could be the most severe in some regions since 2012.