The Western part of the United States is in the throes of a record-setting heat wave that is expected to continue through the week, with temperatures forecast to hit the 120s in some areas. The Weather Channel reports that extreme heat warnings and advisories have been expanded to eight states.

At least one fatality in Las Vegas has been linked to the heat, while scores of people have been treated for ailments caused by the extremely hot weather.

Reuters:

The scorching temperatures can cause potentially fatal heat stroke, and officials said people with no air-conditioning or who must work outdoors were particularly at risk.

Las Vegas on Saturday flirted with its all-time record of 117F (47C), as the mercury rose to 114F (46C) at the airport, said D.J. Hoffman, a meteorologist for private forecaster AccuWeather.com.

Record highs for the day fell in dozens of cities across the West, from Palm Springs to Oakland in California and on up the West Coast to Medford, Oregon.

…Death Valley posted a high on Saturday of 124F (51C), the National Weather Service reported. That’s below the all-time world record of 134F (57C) set there on July 10, 1913, according to the National Park Service.

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The ABC News report below discusses the soaring temperatures and goes through a list of symptoms that can help you determine whether you are suffering from a heat-related illness.

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