California heatwave could be record-breaking

World Today

More than three quarters of the state is experiencing an extreme drought. 2014 may break the 2013 record for California’s hottest year ever. According to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, the first half of 2014 was the hottest on record in California.

A rare lightning storm on July 27 killed one and injured a dozen others at a beach. Experts say it was caused by intense hot weather.

The state has ordered emergency water conservation measures and fines for people who waste water. This is the third straight year of drought conditions. As a result, nearly 1,000 more wildfires have burned in the first six months of 2014 than in the first six months of 2013.

The weather has potential to impact the economy as well. About 17,000 state seasonal and part-time jobs have been lost, as well as more than $2 billion in agriculture. CCTV America’s Yakenda McGahee reports.

California heatwave could be record-breaking

More than three quarters of the state is experiencing an extreme drought. 2014 may break the 2013 record for California's hottest year ever.