A “heat dome” is set to blanket the central and eastern United States starting this weekend, coinciding with the first day of summer. This event is expected to bring extreme heat and high humidity, with temperatures soaring above 100°F (37.7°C) in many cities, affecting an estimated 170–200 million people from the Central Plains to the Mid-Atlantic states, including New York and Pennsylvania.
Meteorologists warn that the high nighttime temperatures will not provide relief, potentially remaining above 80°F, making the heat dangerous, particularly for those without air conditioning. Jonathan Porter, chief meteorologist at Accuweather, highlights that the first heat wave of the year poses significant health risks, especially as many people are not yet acclimated to the heat.
As conditions worsen, states like Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois will also experience extreme temperatures. In addition, experts emphasize the health dangers of prolonged heat exposure, urging citizens to stay cool and seek refuge in cooling stations, particularly vulnerable populations like outdoor workers. However, some states are reducing protective measures against heat, such as in Florida, where laws limit local governments from enacting safety measures for outdoor workers.
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