Heat wave moves to Northeast as over 125 million under alerts
A heat wave that has battered the north-central United States is shifting toward the Northeast, with more than 125 million people under heat alerts, while southwest Texas faces a flash-flood threat.
A heat wave that has been scorching the north-central United States is moving eastward, bringing extreme temperatures to the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic later this week. The National Weather Service said the heat is “exceptionally rare for some locations” and could approach monthly and all-time records. More than 125 million Americans are currently under heat alerts, including extreme heat warnings and advisories.
In the northern Plains and Upper Midwest, daytime highs of 95°F to 105°F are expected, with nighttime lows remaining unusually warm, limiting relief. About 32 million people are under extreme heat warnings where heat-index values have reached the triple-digit range. > "This heat will quickly become dangerous to anyone without adequate cooling or hydration," forecasters warned.
The heat is forecast to peak in the Northeast on Wednesday, with temperatures in the upper 90s to 100°F and several daily high records anticipated from Richmond, Va., to Boston. Cooler weather is expected by the end of the week.
Meanwhile, southwest Texas is dealing with a different threat. A slow-moving system could produce 6 to 8 inches of rain through Thursday, with isolated amounts exceeding 10 inches, raising the risk of flash flooding. Parts of the region are already under flood watches, advisories or flash-flood warnings.
The NWS advises residents in affected areas to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks, limit outdoor activity, and avoid leaving children or pets in unattended vehicles. If outdoors, people should wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and schedule strenuous tasks for early morning or evening.