Heat waves expected to reach dangerous highs in August (includes video story)

Millions of Americans are struggling to stay cool during unrelenting heat waves this summer.

More than 5,000 heat records have been broken or tied in the United States in the last 30 days, and the high temperatures are expected to continue in August.

Las Vegas recorded its highest temperature at 116 degrees. Meanwhile, Death Valley, California reached a scorching 128 degrees.

“I don’t like the heat, but it’s something you have to deal with living in Arizona,” said Beckett Green, a Phoenix resident.

With the heat wave expected to continue, affecting the Midwest and East Coast, it is also expected to impact ocean temperatures and threaten coral reefs. In South Florida, the heat wave places coral reefs at risk of extinction.

Bryan Lopez is a junior majoring in Broadcast Media and Journalism. Once he graduates, he intends on pursuing a career as a sports reporter in South Florida.