Scorching U.S. Heatwave: 100 million brace as heat dome intensifies, Thursday expected to be hottest day

Time of India

3 days ago

An oppressive summer heatwave that has already scorched large swaths of the southern United States is now advancing northward and eastward, with meteorologists warning that the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes will be next in its path. The National Weather Service (NWS) has flagged a rising risk of extreme temperatures in these regions through midweek, prompting widespread heat advisories and raising public health concerns, as per a report by WRTV.
Heat Expands Northeastward Amidst Record-Breaking Temperatures
According to updated forecasts issued Tuesday, the intense heat is set to move from the Mississippi Valley toward the Ohio Valley and the Great Lakes, eventually sweeping across the U.S. East Coast. The NWS noted that while parts of the Mississippi Valley are already experiencing high-risk heat levels, the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley will begin to feel the worst of it by Thursday.
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'These numbers will likely increase over the next few days as the heat wave expands northeastward and then eastward,' the NWS said, referring to over 80 million Americans currently under Extreme Heat Warnings, Watches, or Heat Advisories, as mentioned in a report by
July's weather follows a trend seen across much of the summer. Last month was the seventh warmest June in 131 years of recorded history — and the third warmest ever for the contiguous U.S., according to climate data.
Ohio Valley Braces for Mid-Week Peak
In Ohio, cities such as Cleveland, Wayne, and Holmes are preparing for a spike in temperatures. Thursday is expected to be the hottest day of the week, with daytime highs in the upper-80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit, potentially exceeding 105 degrees on the heat index, a measurement that combines air temperature and humidity to reflect what the temperature actually feels like.
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'Thursday our actual air temperature is looking into the lower 90s,' said Brian Mitchell, an observing program leader at the NWS Cleveland office, as quoted in a report by WRTV.
'Adding in the humidity factors, the heat index will go up into the upper 90s.'
Mitchell explained that the NWS begins issuing heat advisories when the heat index hits triple digits. He also cautioned that people react differently to extreme heat and recommended taking precautions: 'Stay indoors in air conditioning where possible. If you must work outside, do so early in the day, take frequent breaks, and stay hydrated.'
Heat Dome Blankets Over 100 Million Across Midwest and South
This relentless summer spell is attributed to a 'heat dome', a weather phenomenon that traps hot air under high pressure and pushes it downward, raising ground-level temperatures significantly. As a result, over 100 million Americans across the Midwest and South are forecast to experience daily temperatures of 100°F or higher through the end of the week.
Private meteorological firm AccuWeather estimates that nearly 200 million people could feel 'RealFeel' triple-digit heat by Friday, July 25, alone. These 'feels-like' temperatures are calculated using humidity, wind, and other factors that impact human comfort levels.
NWS Offers Safety Guidelines for Coping with Extreme Heat
As the dangerous heat expands its reach, the National Weather Service has reiterated a set of safety tips to help Americans cope:
Use Air Conditioning: It remains the most effective way to stay cool. In areas without access, public buildings like libraries or shopping malls offer respite.
Use Fans Wisely: While helpful in lower temperatures, fans blowing directly at the body can worsen dehydration in rooms over 90°F. Instead, use them to circulate outdoor air inward or exhaust hot air outward.
Take Cool Showers or Baths: A proven method to quickly lower body temperature.
Block Sunlight: Close blinds or curtains during daytime hours to reduce heat buildup indoors.
Avoid Stove or Oven Use: Cooking indoors can raise room temperatures. Instead, opt for cold meals or microwave-based preparation.
Stay Hydrated: Regular water intake is essential, even if one doesn't feel thirsty. Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, as both can dehydrate the body.
Restrict Outdoor Activity: The safest times to venture outside are early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are relatively lower.
Dress Smartly: Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing aids in body cooling and comfort.
Check on Vulnerable People: The elderly, those with chronic illnesses, and individuals living alone should be regularly monitored. Never leave children, elderly individuals, or pets inside parked vehicles.
Raleigh Weather and the Southern Outlook
Southern cities such as Raleigh are also on high alert. As the
heat advisory
zone stretches further east, Raleigh weather stations have recorded rising temperatures, with forecast highs nearing or exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the coming days. The humidity across the region is expected to amplify the heat index, creating hazardous outdoor conditions.
In these zones, emergency cooling centers have been activated, and public announcements continue urging residents to limit time outdoors, especially for vulnerable groups like children and senior citizens.
Climate Patterns and Future Outlook
Meteorologists attribute the expanding heat dome to broader climate patterns influenced by persistent high-pressure systems, possibly intensified by long-term climate shifts. While occasional heatwaves are common in summer, the frequency, intensity, and spread of this year's events have triggered concern.
'The atmospheric setup is increasingly resembling conditions we've only previously seen once a decade or so,' noted a senior climatologist at NOAA, the parent agency of the NWS. 'This summer, however, we're witnessing them multiple times in a matter of weeks.'
Preparedness is Key as Heatwave Continues
Public officials are urging Americans to stay informed via weather alerts, utilize local cooling shelters, and follow recommended precautions. 'This isn't just about discomfort,' Mitchell emphasized. 'It's about survival for those most at risk.'
With no immediate relief in sight, the message is clear: be ready, stay cool, and look out for one another.
FAQs
Which areas are currently affected by the 2025 summer heatwave?
The heatwave initially scorched the southern United States and is now moving northward and eastward, impacting the Mississippi Valley, Ohio Valley, Great Lakes, and parts of the East Coast.
The NWS has issued Extreme Heat Warnings, Watches, and Heat Advisories for more than 80 million Americans, particularly in areas where the heat index may exceed 100°F.