Extreme Heat Wave to Scorch Central and Eastern U.S. with Temperatures Near 100 °F

Extreme Heat Wave in the US

Heat index exceeds 100 °F

Affects 170 million people

An unprecedented heat wave will grip the central and eastern United States this week, with temperatures potentially surpassing 100 °F (38 °C) in multiple cities.

Meteorologists from AccuWeather warned that this heat dome will slowly advance from the west, moving through the Plains, the Midwest, and into the Northeast.

It is estimated that more than 170 million people will be exposed to temperatures of 90 °F (32 °C) or higher over the coming days.

“The magnitude and duration of this heat wave will be a shock to the system,” said senior AccuWeather meteorologist Chad Merrill.

Extreme Heat Wave to Move in from the West

Extreme Heat Wave to Scorch Central and Eastern US – Photo: Shutterstock

Cities like Denver, Detroit, Washington, D.C., and New York will experience the highest temperatures of the year so far.

The extreme heat will be accompanied by high humidity levels, which will significantly raise the heat index.

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In many areas, AccuWeather RealFeel® temperatures could range between 5 and 15 °F above the actual temperature.

That means even if the thermometer reads 90 °F, the human body may perceive it as close to 105 °F.

Hot Nights and Stifling Humidity

The nights won’t bring much relief either, as humidity will prevent significant drops in temperature.

“Many urban areas won’t cool down much overnight,” explained meteorologist Danielle Ehresman.

This will make it harder to sleep, especially for those without access to air conditioning or fans.

Experts recommend avoiding physical exertion from midday to late afternoon, when the heat peaks.

Record Highs in Key Cities

Electricity demand is also expected to spike due to widespread use of cooling systems. Cooling centers may be activated in vulnerable areas to assist seniors and low-income families.

From Friday through Sunday, the extreme heat is expected to break records from the Rockies to the Midwest.

In Denver, at least four consecutive days above 90 °F are forecast, with Friday and Saturday likely exceeding 100 °F.

“This will be Denver’s first triple-digit heat of the year,” confirmed AccuWeather meteorologist Alex Duffus.

Detroit could see a streak of seven consecutive days at or above 90 °F.

“The last time this happened was from July 1 to July 9, 2020,” Merrill noted. According to the cited source, the heat wave will continue pushing northeast between June 23 and 25.

Cities like New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C., will experience widespread highs of 90 °F or more.

“Washington, D.C., has only had two consecutive 90 °F days this year, but now it could be seven,” said Merrill.

Five-Day Streak of Extreme Heat

In New York, a five-day streak of extreme heat is expected starting Monday. Boston may experience heat disruptions due to thunderstorms, but will still face a couple of stifling days.

The heat dome will be slightly moderated by soil moisture, which will absorb some of the solar energy.

However, that same moisture will amplify the “jungle effect” in many areas, especially at night.

Storm activity will be scarce, though intense electrical storms may form in northern New York and New England.

Recommendations for Extreme Heat

Experts warn that prolonged exposure to this heat can cause heatstroke and other serious illnesses.

People are urged to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outings, and take special care of children and the elderly. It is also important to protect pets from the extreme heat.

“If you can’t hold your hand on the pavement without burning yourself, it’s too hot to walk your pet,” they warn.

The heat will fill pools, beaches, and parks, but caution is advised around cold water, which may cause thermal shock, AccuWeather noted.