Heat wave affects over 80 million Americans

Dangerous heat continues across the U.S. as millions see feels-like temperature reaching into the 90s and 100s from the Southeast to the Midwest.

Heat wave threatens safety of over 80 million Americans

A major heat wave is gripping the United States, affecting more than 80 million people as heat indices soar into the 90s and 100s. The Midwest and Southeast are facing extreme heat warnings this weekend, with St. Louis experiencing feels-like temperatures of up to 114 degrees. Cities in South Carolina and North Carolina, such as Myrtle Beach and Raleigh, will also see dangerously high temperatures. Heat advisories have been issued across the country, from Florida to Virginia and up to Texas and West Virginia. The Northeast will be slightly cooler thanks to a cold front, but many areas will still face high heat next week, with an extreme heat risk level 4 issued for large portions of the Southeast.

This ongoing heat wave highlights the growing pattern of extreme weather across the U.S. The lack of significant cooling at night increases health risks for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those without access to air conditioning. Further, as heat warnings extend into next week, the implications for public health and safety are stark. We may soon see hospitals strained under the pressure of heat-related illnesses, as well as potential disruptions in industries reliant on outdoor labor. Moreover, increased temperatures also contribute to fire hazards in the region.

Highlights

The situation underscores the importance of being prepared for a summer marked by extreme heat events.