Heat Wave Keeps Triple-Digit Temperatures Across Central and Eastern U.S. Through Weekend

A persistent heat wave is forecast to keep much of the central and eastern United States in triple-digit temperatures through Friday and the weekend, with typical summer warmth unlikely to return to the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic until early next week. About 180 million people are currently under extreme heat warnings or advisories, many of whom have already endured several days of severe alerts urging residents to avoid outdoor activity during peak heat.

Record-high temperatures were reported on Thursday in several cities. New York’s Kennedy Airport reached 102 °F, surpassing the 101 °F record set in 1966, while Central Park tied its 100 °F record from the same year, marking the first 100-degree reading at the Belvedere Castle station since 2012. Further south, Trenton, N.J., recorded 101 °F, exceeding its 1901 record by one degree, and Philadelphia hit 103 °F, matching its 1901 high.

"The heat is dangerous and long-lasting, and residents should follow guidance from local officials to stay safe," said a spokesperson for the National Weather Service.

The extreme temperatures are expected to ease only in the Great Lakes region and the far Northeast over the weekend, while the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast are likely to remain hot.