A significant heat dome is expanding across the central United States, bringing dangerously hot weather that will affect an estimated 70 million people through the weekend and into next week. Temperatures are expected to soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius) from Dallas, Texas, to North Dakota.
The atmospheric phenomenon traps heat, leading to sustained high temperatures and increasing discomfort. Overnight low temperatures are not forecast to fall enough to provide significant relief, allowing heat stress to build. High humidity will exacerbate the conditions, making it feel even hotter.
The oppressive midsummer weather is projected to stretch from the desert Southwest to the Gulf Coast, extending into the Midwest and the Great Plains. Some areas, such as western Nebraska, could see temperatures reach 108 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius) on Saturday and Sunday. Forecasters anticipate that temperatures in some parts of the Denver area could break records, running 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit (5.6 to 8.3 degrees Celsius) above normal.
Bob Oravec, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, stated that the heat dome is expected to remain largely stationary throughout the week. While some relief might appear toward the end of next week in the central U.S., it may only be temporary. Areas like the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, and much of the Pacific Northwest are expected to avoid the most extreme heat.
This current heatwave follows a summer already marked by intense weather. The eastern United States experienced a very hot early July, which led to the cancellation of some Independence Day celebrations. A mid-July heatwave also affected the Southwest and Great Plains.
Events and public spaces are adapting to the extreme heat. Fans attending the Brickyard 400 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway will have access to water refill stations and cooling areas. In Denver, recreation centers are designated as cooling centers for people seeking respite from the heat.
The National Weather Service warns that the heat dome poses significant dangers, particularly to children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, who are at higher risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke. Authorities advise seeking air-conditioned spaces, drinking plenty of water, and limiting direct sun exposure.
Experts note that while attributing any single weather event to climate change is complex, rising carbon dioxide levels from fossil fuel combustion are increasing the likelihood of more frequent and extreme heatwaves. Andy Pershing, chief program officer at Climate Central, a climate change communications nonprofit, stated that the current conditions align with climate models predicting more frequent, severe heat waves with higher humidity and overnight temperatures.