Widespread Extreme Heat Forecast Across the US
Widespread Extreme Heat Forecast Across the US
A significant heatwave is predicted to impact large portions of the United States, with record-breaking temperatures anticipated in several regions. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued various weather alerts across multiple states.
In Colorado, a heat advisory is in effect for the Interstate 25 corridor from Larimer to Douglas counties and much of the Eastern Plains. Temperatures are expected to reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher in metro Denver and up to 103 degrees Fahrenheit on the plains. The advisory covers the period from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The record daily high for June 21st in Denver is 99 degrees, last set in 2007. Denver reached this temperature on June 20th. Additionally, a Red Flag Warning is in effect for the Western Slope and southern and central Colorado counties, including Park, Lake, and Chaffee counties, due to strong winds, low humidity, and hot weather increasing fire risk.
An air quality alert is also in effect for metro Denver until 4 p.m. due to elevated ozone levels. Denver, Jefferson, Douglas, western Arapahoe, western Adams, Broomfield, Boulder, Larimer, and Weld counties may experience ozone levels unhealthy for sensitive groups, including those with lung disease like asthma, active children, and adults.
The NWS advises residents to take precautions during the heat, including drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol, staying in air-conditioned environments, limiting sun exposure, and wearing lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. When outdoors, frequent breaks in the shade and limiting strenuous activities to early mornings and evenings are recommended.
Meanwhile, in the Northeast, a “heat dome” is expected to bring a heatwave to New York City and much of the region. The Weather Channel reports that this “strong bubble of high pressure” will suppress cloud cover and rainfall, leading to intense sunshine and high humidity. The heatwave is predicted to last at least ten days, with temperatures potentially reaching triple digits in New York City. The NWS forecasts a high of 97 degrees Fahrenheit on Monday and potentially 101 degrees Fahrenheit on Tuesday, followed by several days of temperatures in the upper 90s.
Nationwide, temperatures are forecast to exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 220 million people, with an additional 35 million facing temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit next week. The NWS warns of a “moderate risk of extreme heat,” particularly impacting the elderly and disabled. Extreme heat watches, warnings, and advisories have been issued across much of the Southwest, Rockies, Plains, Upper Midwest, and parts of the Northeast.
Experts warn that heat is a leading weather-related killer in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities annually. The combination of record-breaking temperatures and high humidity poses a significant health risk across the affected regions. The NWS and other weather agencies continue to monitor the situation and issue updates as needed.
In summary, a significant and widespread heatwave is impacting the United States, with record-high temperatures and associated health risks predicted across multiple states. Various weather advisories and warnings are in effect, urging residents to take precautions to protect themselves from the extreme heat. The situation is expected to continue for at least the next several days.
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