Extreme heat wave to affect more than 100 million people this weekend

Up to 15 states could be affected by an extreme heat wave this weekend. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), temperatures will exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit across the western and much of the southern United States, leaving more than 100 million people under alert.

According to NWS forecasts, residents of California, Nevada, Arizona, northwestern Utah, several areas of central and southern Texas and southern Oklahoma will experience the highest temperatures. Other states where heat alerts have been activated include Washington, Oregon, Idaho, New Mexico, Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and southern Florida.

These high temperatures could break records. For example, in Las Vegas, temperatures are expected to reach 118 degrees Fahrenheit, exceeding the city's record high. "This heatwave is NOT typical desert heat due to its long duration, extreme daytime temperatures, & warm nights. Everyone needs to take this heat seriously, including those who live in the desert," tweeted the NWS of Las Vegas.

California could experience the highest temperatures overall. The NWS Los Angeles reported that heat in Los Angeles County will peak between Saturday and Sunday:

Authorities have already warned of the serious health risks that can result from this heat wave if precautions are not taken. Good hydration, avoiding exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day and always trying to be in air-conditioned places are the main recommendations provided by the NWS.