Heat wave expected to bring 90s and 100-degree temperatures across central and eastern U.S. through July 4 weekend
Forecasters warn that much of the central and eastern United States will experience dangerously high temperatures, prompting officials to open cooling centers ahead of the Independence Day holiday.
A broad heat wave is set to affect the central and eastern United States through the Fourth of July weekend, with temperatures projected to rise into the 90s and low 100s in many areas. Meteorologists say the forecast could challenge or break daily heat records as the high pressure system moves eastward.
City and county leaders from Chicago to New York have begun opening cooling centers and urging residents to take precautions. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the activation of an "unprecedented, historic heat emergency plan" as the city anticipates its highest temperatures later in the week.
National Weather Service meteorologist Michael Muccilli described the outlook as the "hottest temperatures so far this season" and cautioned that the risk could increase because many people are expected to spend time outdoors in the days leading up to the holiday.
"The danger will be further heightened because of the number of people expected to spend time outdoors in the lead-up to the long holiday weekend," Muccilli said.
