Central, Eastern U.S. Bake Amid Scorching Heat | WeatherBug
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Central, Eastern U.S. Bake Amid Scorching Heat

June 24, 2022
UPDATED By WeatherBug Meteorologists
As the work week comes to a close, air conditioners will be humming as high temperatures bake the U.S.

A dome of heat has overtaken much of the Midwest and has begun to slide into the Eastern U.S. Meanwhile, southerly winds within the high pressure system has been pumping hot air as far north as the northern Plains, Great Lakes and Ohio Valley. These winds have caused temperatures to soar to as much as 10 to 25 degrees above the normal for this time of year. As if that wasn’t enough, humidity streaming in from the south will increase heat indices and make the air even more soupy and uncomfortable to close out the week.

Heat Advisories remain in effect from across the southern Plains to the Florida Gulf Coast, with an Excessive Heat Warning across metro New Orleans, southern Mississippi and the west coast of Florida. Other cities under an advisory include Dallas, Tulsa, Okla., Shreveport, La., and Tallahassee and Tampa, Fla. 

On top of the elevated temperatures, heat indices will also be a concern thanks to dew points ranging in the 70s in most areas. This will make feels like temperatures bubble into the 110s for areas along the Gulf Coast and Southeast. Sadly, the nighttime won't provide much relief either, with overnight temperatures only falling into the 70s and 80s. 

A scorcher of a weekend is expected across parts of the Deep South and Southeast as the heat dome shifts eastward in the coming days. High temperatures knocking on the door of 100 degrees will be commonplace from the Oklahoma and Texas panhandles to the Florida Panhandle. Meanwhile, upper 80s and upper 90s will be scattered throughout the Midwest before temperatures simmer down towards the end of the weekend.

If you cannot avoid being outdoors, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, take breaks often, and wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. This type of heat may lead to heat-related illnesses like heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

It is important to check on those who are considered at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses, such as the elderly, children, and pets. Make sure to increase the intake of water and check the backseat before locking and leaving your vehicle.