The United States is in the grip of a severe heat wave, with over 100 million residents facing dangerous temperatures. From the West Coast to the Northeast, cities are experiencing record-breaking highs and extreme heat indices.
This week, a heat dome has settled over the Northern Plains, trapping high-pressure air and causing blistering temperatures and humidity. The effects are being felt across the country, with numerous cities issuing extreme heat warnings and advisories.
Record-Breaking Temperatures in the West
In the Western United States, several cities have shattered their all-time temperature records. Salt Lake City reached a preliminary high of 109 degrees Fahrenheit on Sunday, surpassing the previous record of 107 degrees set in 1960 and several subsequent years. Similarly, Billings, Montana recorded a high of 111 degrees, breaking the previous record of 108 degrees set in 2002.
The small town of Miles City, Montana experienced a preliminary high of 115 degrees, surpassing its previous record of 111 degrees set in 2012. For context, the hottest temperature ever recorded in Montana was 117 degrees, observed in Medicine Lake in 1937 and in Glendive in 1893.
Extreme Heat Warnings Across the Midwest and Northeast
The Midwest is also feeling the heat, with Minneapolis, Minnesota under an extreme heat warning through Thursday. The heat index in the city could reach up to 100 degrees. Other areas, including Utah and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan are also under extreme heat warnings.
In the Northeast, a heat wave is expected to begin on Tuesday, with temperatures soaring above 90 degrees for three or more consecutive days in cities like New York CityPhiladelphia and Washington, D.C.. A heat advisory is in place for much of the Northeast due to expected heat indices around 100 degrees.
Severe Weather Threats in Northern New England
The extreme heat and humidity, combined with a sinking cold front from Canada, are expected to fuel severe storms in Northern New England. These storms could bring destructive winds over 70 mph, large hail, and possibly even a strong tornado or two. Areas at risk include Burlington, VermontPlattsburgh, New YorkCaribou, MaineColchester, Vermont and Massena, New York.
Southern California Under Heat Alerts
Out West, Southern California is under heat alerts through Thursday. Temperatures are expected to reach 85 to 90 degrees across coastal valleys and up to 105 degrees in interior valleys. By Wednesday and Thursday, downtown Los Angeles could see temperatures in the middle to upper 90s, with interior valleys reaching up to 105 degrees.
As the nation grapples with this extreme heat, it is crucial for residents to stay hydrated, seek shade, and utilize cooling stations and air-conditioned spaces to stay safe. The heat wave serves as a stark reminder of the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
