Heat Wave Written by Eileen Spinelli Illustrated by

Heat Wave Written by: Eileen Spinelli Illustrated by: Betsy Lewin “The most appealing heat wave that’s ever passed through a city”

It’s hot It’s really hot “Sun sizzled. Hair Frizzled. ”

What is a heat wave? n Heat wave definition, an air mass of high temperature covering an extended area and moving relatively slowly n A heat wave can be an extended period of days with higher than normal temperatures.

What are some of the causes? n A heat wave is caused by a system of higher atmospheric pressure. Air from upper levels of the atmosphere descends and rotates outward. As it comes down, it becomes compressed, which increases its temperature and dries it out.

Major Cause Global Warming "Global warming is bringing more frequent and severe heat waves, and the result will be serious for vulnerable populations. " National Wildlife Federation

Where do heat waves occur most? n n Hot humid air masses form over the Gulf of Mexico Over the desert, Southwest and northern Mexico The Caribbean Sea Eastern United States

Effects n n n Air pollution in urban areas could get worse Increased risk of heart attacks (especially for the elderly) Heat strokes (especially for the elderly) Asthma attacks Dehydration Blackout

Weather related books Non-fiction books about weather located in the 500’s section n n Weather by John Farndon Weather by David Lambert (Series: An Easyread fact book) n Weather Experiments by Vera Webster (Series: A New true book)

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