Tens of millions of Americans are currently facing extreme heat alerts as a severe heatwave impacts various regions of the country this week, particularly in the Northeast. Cities such as Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston have all issued extreme heat warnings that will take effect on Sunday, as temperatures are expected to rise significantly during the latter half of the weekend.
In addition to the warnings for major cities, an extreme heat watch has also been announced for Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, set to begin on Monday. New York City Mayor Eric Adams informed reporters on Saturday that temperatures are projected to reach the high 90s, with peak heat expected to hit 100 degrees on Tuesday. He cautioned that such conditions could be deadly and life-threatening if residents are not adequately prepared.
During a press conference, Zachary Iscol, the commissioner of the city's Emergency Management Department, announced that New York City would activate its emergency heat plan starting Sunday, which includes the opening of 248 cooling centers. He urged residents to limit outdoor strenuous activities and to conserve electricity by avoiding the use of appliances like washing machines during peak power hours.
Other regions of the United States are also bracing for similar extreme heat conditions. Heat alerts have been issued from Colorado to Maine, affecting more than 150 million Americans. In the Midwest, heat index values are predicted to soar into the triple digits this afternoon, with some areas experiencing feels-like temperatures ranging from 105 to 110 degrees.
The intense heat is expected to move eastward on Sunday, with temperatures climbing into the 90s from the Great Lakes to southern New England. The humidity will exacerbate the situation, making it feel even hotter. The heat index is forecasted to reach triple digits across much of the Midwest again tomorrow, including the Chicago area, while parts of the Northeast will also experience feels-like temperatures approaching the upper 90s to nearly 100 degrees.
Fortunately, heat relief is expected to sweep into the northern Plains within the next 24 to 48 hours as the extreme heat begins to shift eastward in the coming days. However, residents are advised to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions as the heatwave continues to affect millions across the country.
