A powerful heat dome is gripping much of the South and Midwest this week, bringing dangerously high temperatures and oppressive humidity, and the Northeast may feel its effects before the week is out.
The heat wave, fueled by a high-pressure system trapping hot air and suppressing cloud cover, has already pushed heat index values above 100 degrees in parts of the Mississippi and Ohio Valleys. Cities like Chicago are expected to see heat index readings near 110 degrees by midweek.
Although the Northeast has enjoyed a brief reprieve from July’s typical swelter, forecasts show hot and humid conditions building back in by Wednesday or Thursday, peaking Friday and lingering into Saturday. Highs in the mid-90s are expected from Boston to Washington, D.C., with heat indices approaching triple digits.
Adding to the danger, overnight lows in many areas will remain in the upper 70s, offering little relief, particularly for those without air conditioning. Some overnight temperatures may even challenge record-warm readings.
Humidity will intensify the discomfort, with dew points rising into the upper 70s and low 80s in some southern and Midwestern areas—among the muggiest conditions possible in the U.S. Northeastern cities may also see dew points in the 70s by late week.
The heat dome’s staying power could keep much of the country sweltering into the final weekend of July, though the Northeast may finally see some relief by then.
Officials are urging people to take precautions. Heat is the deadliest form of weather in the U.S., especially when high temperatures persist overnight. People are advised to stay indoors during peak heat hours, check on vulnerable neighbors, stay hydrated, and wear light clothing.
Source: The Weather Channel