An extreme heat wave is sweeping across the Western United States, with record-breaking temperatures seen in Phoenix for 10 consecutive days. California, Kansas, and Nebraska also experienced record highs. Millions of people are under heat alerts, with temperatures well above normal in many regions. As the heatwave continues, the National Hurricane Center is monitoring potential tropical disturbances in the Gulf of Mexico, with heavy rain expected in Florida. Hurricane Kirk has made history by reaching Category 4 status, breaking records for the farthest east an Atlantic Category 4 or 5 hurricane has formed in October and November. The warm water temperatures fueling these storms are unusual for this time of year, emphasizing the impact of climate change on extreme weather events. Despite the busy hurricane activity, there is no immediate threat to land from Hurricane Kirk and Tropical Storm Leslie. Many areas in the U.S. are experiencing temperatures significantly above average, with no relief in sight as the heatwave is expected to persist over the weekend.
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