A prolonged stretch of dangerous and potentially record-breaking heat is expected to hit the eastern half of the US, affecting millions of Americans as they celebrate the country’s 250th Independence Day.
Heat Wave Details
The heat wave will start in the Midwest and move into the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast by Wednesday, with temperatures near or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit and heat indices as high as 110 degrees or more.
Many areas will endure consecutive days of high temperatures, with little relief at night due to high humidity. The heat wave is expected to peak during one of the busiest travel and outdoor celebration periods of the year.
Over 100 daily record highs could be tied or broken, and over 250 record warm overnight lows could be challenged this week alone. The National Weather Service has warned that the heat wave poses a serious health threat, particularly for those without proper cooling or hydration.
Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can cause illnesses like heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat stroke. Emergency room visits for heat-related illness are expected to surge during the heat wave.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
