National Weather Service warns of extensive heat wave across central and eastern United States
The National Weather Service said a widespread heat wave will bring high temperatures and humidity to more than half of the U.S. through the Fourth of July weekend, with heat indices reaching up to 115°F in some areas.
The National Weather Service warned that a broad heat wave will affect a large portion of the United States this week, with temperatures climbing into the 90s and low 100s Fahrenheit and humidity driving heat indices to 100-115°F. The system is expected to cover the lower Great Lakes, the Mid-Atlantic, and the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys, persisting into the weekend across the Great Plains, Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.
Major cities such as New York, Philadelphia, Washington, Baltimore, Chicago, St. Louis, Detroit, Dallas, Little Rock and Memphis are projected to experience some of the highest temperatures of the year so far, coinciding with World Cup matches scheduled in the area.
The service noted that nighttime lows will remain in the 70s°F, offering limited relief, and advised residents to limit outdoor activity, stay hydrated and seek air-conditioned spaces. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlighted that heat exposure can cause symptoms such as muscle cramps, dizziness, excessive sweating, shortness of breath, headaches, weakness and nausea.
While the central and eastern U.S. faces elevated heat risks, parts of the western United States, including the Northwest and northern Rockies, are experiencing temperatures 20-35°F below normal.
