Sweltering Heat Continues in the East

Life-threatening heat will continue across much of the eastern half of the nation, including the Midwest, the Mid-Atlantic and the Northeast today.

A huge area of high pressure, sometimes called a heat dome, is centered over the Appalachians and is nearly stationary. This summertime phenomena will cause blistering heat to continue over the East today. Places in the Mid-Atlantic, Ohio Valley, and Northeast will see record highs broken and heat indices greater than 100 degrees today. The peak of the heat wave will be today for many areas, including the Midwest and the Northeast. Some areas will see potentially deadly heat indices topping 110 degrees.

Widespread Heat Advisories, Extreme Heat Warnings, and Extreme Heat Watches are in effect from the Mississippi Valley and Midwest to New England and the Mid-Atlantic today. This includes nearly all of the major cities across the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and New England.

Several record highs will be broken or challenged today in parts of the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, Ohio Valley, and the Great Lakes. Boston has a forecast of an almost unbelievable 102 which would smash the record of 95 set in 2013. A hundred miles or so to the north, Portland, Maine will see its record high of 93 degrees set in 1976 broken by a forecast high temperature of 96 degrees.

In the Mid-Atlantic, Atlantic City, N.J. is expected to tie its record of 99 set in 2010. Lynchburg, Va., is forecast to break their record of 98 degrees set in 1930 with a scorching forecast of 99 degrees.

The heat dome will move ever so slightly to the southwest on Wednesday, which gives a path for a cold front to slowly move into the Ohio Valley and Northeast. As a result, temperatures will not be quite as hot for these areas on Wednesday, with temperature readings in the upper 80s to mid 90s still likely, and heat indices in the 90s to around 100 degrees. 

The Mid-Atlantic to Carolinas will continue to roast from the oppressive heat and humidity on Wednesday and Thursday as high pressure remains overhead. This will result in a common summer-time pattern with daily highs in the low to mid 90s, with heat indices of 100 to 107 degrees.

If you are in one of these areas experiencing unseasonably hot temperatures, it will be important to stay hydrated and cool. Avoid exposure to the sun from late morning into the early evening. Take frequent breaks in the air conditioning or shade. Eat and dress lightly. Use sun protection if outdoors. Never leave kids or pets unattended and remember to “Look Before You Lock!” Recognize the signs of heat-related illness.