by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
A dangerous and prolonged heat wave has gripped the eastern United States, with temperatures forecast to soar 15 to 25 degrees above normal this week. On Tuesday, some areas are expected to experience “feels like” temperatures reaching up to 110°F, according to CBS News meteorologist Nikki Nolan.
The National Weather Service (NWS) says the worst of the heat will hit the Northeast on Tuesday, with high temperatures ranging from 98 to 101°F. “Numerous daily record highs and warm overnight lows” are expected through at least Wednesday. Light winds, intense sunshine, and minimal overnight cooling will significantly increase health risks—especially for those without proper air conditioning or hydration.
A powerful ridge of high pressure, responsible for the heat, broke a measurement record on Monday—ranking as the third-highest ever for any date. That marks this as a “near-historic” heat event, according to meteorologist Ryan Maue, formerly of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
More than 160 million people are currently under extreme heat warnings. Including heat advisories, that number climbs to around 200 million—making this one of the largest heat alert events ever recorded in the U.S. Major cities from the Midwest to the Northeast are under intense heat stress.
The NWS highlighted the severity in a social media post last week: “Summer has taken its time arriving in the Northeast, but it’s coming in HOT,” warning of triple-digit heat index levels and oppressive humidity.
On Sunday, heat index values reached 103°F in Chicago, 105°F in Pittsburgh, and 104°F in Columbus, Ohio. By Monday, Philadelphia’s heat index had climbed to 108°F.
This extreme heat is being caused by a “heat dome”—a persistent high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere that traps heat and moisture. When stationary, it can create dangerously high temperatures and degrade air quality.
Experts caution that early-season heat waves are particularly hazardous, as people have not yet adjusted to sustained high temperatures. “Some areas could be 40 degrees warmer than just last week,” said NOAA meteorologist David Roth. “That’s a big deal.”
Stay informed with local forecasts and take precautions to stay safe during this record-breaking heat wave.