A blistering heatwave continues to grip parts of the US, affecting tens of millions of people in the midwest and east. The northeast, from Minnesota to Maine, and regions in Arkansas, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Mississippi, were under heat advisories. Temperatures soared, with Chicago hitting 80F early in the morning and heat indices reaching 100-105F in several areas.
Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh faced heat indices exceeding 100F, prompting public health emergencies and advisories. Residents were directed to seek relief in air-conditioned facilities, and precautions were taken at events like the FIFA World Cup match in Philadelphia. Athletes also felt the impact, as baseball players in St. Louis and Chicago fell ill due to the extreme conditions.
Forecasters warned of scorching temperatures affecting golfers in Connecticut and various activities being canceled in Wisconsin due to the intense heat. The heatwave, attributed to a heat dome phenomenon trapping heat and humidity, is expected to persist, with New York City, Boston, and Washington DC bracing for soaring temperatures.
Mark Gehring, a National Weather Service meteorologist, noted the widespread nature of this heatwave, covering a vast area east of the Rockies. While such heat is not uncommon in the US during summer, the extent of this event stands out as particularly noteworthy. As the heatwave persists, people are advised to take precautions to stay safe and cool amidst the oppressive conditions.