A punishing heat wave has left more than a dozen people dead across Texas. In recent days temperatures have Robert Brownclimbed above 100 degrees in many parts of the state. Now the extreme heat is heading east, putting people's health at risk across the Mississippi Valley and the Central Gulf Coast.

NPR's Lauren Sommer reports on how climate change and the El Niño climate pattern are increasing the intensity and frequency of heat waves. And Monica Samayoa from Oregon Public Broadcasting reports on how one county is suing oil and gas companies for damages caused by a heat wave.

This episode also features reporting from KERA's Toluwani Osibamowo in Dallas.

In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment to help you make sense of what's going on in your community.

Email us at [email protected].

This episode was produced by Connor Donevan, Matt Ozug and Kai McNamee. It was edited by Adam Raney, Sarah Handel, Ravenna Koenig and Neela Banerjee. Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.