Record Heat Wave Peaks in Northeast, Lingering Danger in Southeast
Record Heat Wave Peaks in Northeast, Lingering Danger in Southeast
A brutal and expansive heat wave that baked the eastern United States for days is finally beginning to loosen its grip on the Northeast, though dangerous temperatures are expected to persist in the Southeast through Thursday. Millions across the region endured sweltering conditions, with many areas experiencing record-breaking heat.
Temperatures soared 10-20 degrees above average this week, with heat index readings, or “feels like” temperatures, reaching a staggering 110 degrees Fahrenheit in some locations. On Tuesday, Philadelphia hit 100 degrees for the first time since 2012, while New York City’s Central Park recorded a heat index of 100 degrees. Other major cities like Boston, Baltimore, and even Fryeburg, Maine, also saw temperatures hit the century mark.
More than 125 million Americans were placed under various heat alerts, marking one of the most widespread heat warning events ever recorded. The unprecedented heat, which shifted into the Midwest and Ohio Valley before arriving in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic on Sunday, was largely due to a “heat dome”—an area of high pressure trapping heat and humidity over a vast portion of the country.
While a cold front began bringing some relief to the Northeast Wednesday night, allowing temperatures to drop from their mid-week peak, the Southeast is still bracing for well-above-average temperatures on Thursday. Along with cooler weather, the front is also expected to bring a risk of severe storms and rain to the Midwest, Eastern Seaboard, and Southeast.
Officials and health experts have repeatedly warned of the severe dangers posed by such extreme heat, especially early in the season before bodies have acclimated. “I cannot emphasize this enough: extreme heat can be deadly,” New York Gov. Kathy Hochul cautioned, urging residents to stay indoors with air conditioning. Experts also highlight the particular danger of warm overnight low temperatures, which prevent the body from adequately cooling down.
The National Weather Service recommends staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if not thirsty, and avoiding extended time outdoors. If outdoor activity is unavoidable, wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing. Be vigilant for symptoms of overheating, including muscle cramps, heavy sweating, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, weakness, or nausea, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist after moving to a cooler environment and hydrating.
Climate change is increasingly linked to the rising frequency and intensity of extreme heat events, with the number of days above 95 degrees projected to increase across the U.S. Heat remains the leading cause of weather-related deaths, underscoring the critical importance of public awareness and safety measures during these dangerous conditions.
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