Tens of millions of people across the Midwest and East of the United States are bracing for another day of dangerously hot temperatures as a rare June heatwave continues to grip parts of the country.
Widespread Heat Warnings
Most of the northeastern part of the U.S., stretching from Minnesota to Maine, was under some form of heat advisory on Sunday. Several regions in Arkansas, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Mississippi were also affected.
By 7:30 am on Sunday, the temperature in the Chicago area had already reached 80°F (26.6°C), with heat indices expected to soar between 100°F and 105°F. In Pittsburgh, the heat index was predicted to top 105°F, and Columbus, Ohio, saw a 77°F temperature at 8:30 am, with highs anticipated to reach 97°F and a heat index around 104°F. In Philadelphia, the heat index was forecast to reach 100°F on Sunday, rising to 108°F by Monday.
Health Precautions
The public health department of Philadelphia declared a heat emergency starting at noon on Sunday, which will last until Wednesday evening. Authorities directed residents to air-conditioned public spaces like libraries and community centers.
Additionally, a “heat line” has been set up, staffed by medical professionals, to address heat-related concerns and illnesses. For safety, fans attending the FIFA World Cup match at Lincoln Financial Field were permitted to bring in a 20oz plastic bottle of water.
In Cromwell, Connecticut, the heat index was expected to reach 105°F, presenting challenges for golfers like Tommy Fleetwood and Keegan Bradley competing during the final round of the Travelers Championship.
Impact on Athletes and Locals
Athletes were also affected by the extreme heat. Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz and Seattle Mariners reliever Trent Thornton fell ill on Saturday while playing in the extreme conditions.
In Madison, Wisconsin, heat indices reached 101°F, making it difficult for participants in the city’s annual naked bike ride. Lynn Watkins, director of Sacred Hearts daycare in Sun Prairie, a suburb of Madison, mentioned that she had to cancel outdoor activities on Monday due to the high temperatures expected to reach 93°F.
Record-Breaking Heat in Minneapolis
Minneapolis saw a heat index of 106°F, with an actual temperature of 96°F, breaking the previous record of 95°F for the date set in 1910.
Continuing Extreme Heat
The heatwave is set to continue into the coming week, with the hottest temperatures shifting eastward. New York City is expected to experience highs around 95°F on Monday and Tuesday, while Boston may reach near 100°F on Tuesday. Washington, DC, is forecast to hit 100°F on Tuesday and Wednesday.
The Cause: Heat Dome
Meteorologists attribute the extreme heat to a phenomenon known as a heat dome. This large area of high pressure traps heat and humidity in the atmosphere, preventing it from escaping.
While such intense heat is not uncommon in the U.S. during the summer months, it typically occurs in mid-July or August. The unusual part of this heatwave is the large area affected, stretching across much of the territory east of the Rocky Mountains.
According to Mark Gehring, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, this heatwave is unusual not only for its size but also for occurring in June. “It’s basically everywhere east of the Rockies,” he said. “That is unusual, to have this massive area of high dew points and heat.”
