A large bubble of heat is forecasted to move slowly across the United States into the upcoming week, transitioning from the West to the Central States and eventually reaching the East. Meteorologists at AccuWeather are warning that this heat wave will bring the highest temperatures of the year so far, with some regions possibly hitting triple digits. Due to the limited warm days experienced in many parts of the northern Plains, Midwest, and Northeast this year, the sudden surge in heat may catch people off guard. This heat wave will be accompanied by intense sunshine and high humidity levels, making it challenging for urban areas to cool down at night, with temperatures only dropping briefly into the 70s. This situation could pose difficulties for those without air conditioning in terms of rest and recovery from the heat, as stated by AccuWeather meteorologist Danielle Ehresman.
Energy demands are expected to rise significantly, and the risk of heat-related illnesses will also increase. Cooling centers may need to be opened, and neighborhoods will be filled with the sound of fans and air conditioners. It is advised that people minimize physical activity during the midday and afternoon hours when AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures will be at their peak, ranging from 5-15 degrees Fahrenheit above the actual temperature. Even in areas where temperatures are in the 90s, RealFeel temperatures may surpass 100 degrees.
While regions west of the Rockies are experiencing a cooldown, sweltering heat is anticipated to grip the central part of the nation from Friday to Sunday. AccuWeather meteorologist Alex Duffus mentioned that temperatures could challenge daily record highs from the central Rockies to the Plains and Midwest, with highs in the upper 90s and low 100s, which are 10-20 degrees above historical averages for late June.
AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Chad Merrill noted that the intensity and duration of this heat wave will be surprising. AccuWeather estimates that around 170 million people will face temperatures at or above 90 degrees during the upcoming heat wave.
Denver is expected to have a four-day period with temperatures in the 90s or above, with highs surpassing 100 on a couple of days. This will mark Denver’s first triple-digit heat of the year. Meanwhile, Detroit, which has not yet reached 90 degrees this year, could experience a stretch of at least seven days at or above this mark starting on Saturday, potentially tying for the third-longest streak of consecutive 90-degree days.
In the early part of next week, the heat wave is forecasted to progress eastward, focusing on the Great Lakes, central Appalachians, mid-Atlantic, and New England regions. Meteorologist Alex Duffus mentioned that from Monday to Wednesday, the Northeast will experience dangerous heat with widespread highs in the 90s and some areas reaching or exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, leading to a surge in energy demands and the need to limit exposure to the extreme conditions. The effects of the heat dome in the
Temperatures may soar above 100 degrees across a wide area, rather than just a few cities. Get the AccuWeather app for free and unlock AccuWeather Alerts™ with Premium+ features. Evaporation from the damp ground will contribute to the already humid conditions, creating a jungle-like environment during both day and night. While thunderstorm activity may be limited in many areas due to the heat, some regions on the northern edge of the heat dome, including parts of the Great Lakes, upstate New York, and New England, could experience intense thunderstorms.
According to AccuWeather, Washington, D.C., has only seen two consecutive days with temperatures in the 90s this year. However, the city may soon face a seven-day stretch of 90-degree temperatures starting on Sunday. New York City is expected to have five consecutive days of temperatures over 90 degrees, starting Monday. Boston, situated on the outskirts of the heat dome, may see a couple of days above 90 degrees, with potential interruptions from thunderstorms.
As the heat dome faces challenges from varying directions next week, some areas in the mid-Atlantic region could remain hot and dry for an extended period. With the upcoming heat and humidity surge, it’s important to take precautions, stay hydrated, and keep a close eye on children and the elderly. Remember to bring pets indoors and provide plenty of water for them. Avoid walking dogs on hot pavement and opt for grassy areas instead.
Be cautious when swimming in pools or at beaches, as some waters may still be chilly and potentially dangerous due to prolonged cold conditions. To receive advanced and ad-free severe weather alerts, consider subscribing to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. AccuWeather Alerts™ are issued by expert meteorologists who monitor hazardous weather risks around the clock to ensure your family’s safety.
