A days-long heatwave continues to scorch the eastern United States, with about 90 million Americans under heat alerts. Extreme temperatures will continue through the weekend, potentially breaking records with afternoon highs in the triple digits, according to the National Weather Service.
New England and parts of the Midwest have already experienced record-breaking temperatures, with heat indexes reaching 100 to 110 degrees on Thursday.
The Mid-Atlantic states are likely to see temperatures into the 100s on Saturday, with 64 million people still under heat alerts. In the Ohio Valley, the NWS "Heat Risk" index is at level 4, labeled "extreme," for the next two days. Washington, D.C., may surpass 101 degrees on Sunday, breaking a record from the 1980s and marking the first triple-digit temperature since 2016, according to AccuWeather.
Extreme weather threatens outdoor events
Prolonged heat waves and severe weather events are becoming more frequent due to global warming and climate change, scientific evidence demonstrates. On a warming planet, processes related to outdoor events are at risk, noted an article by Bloomberg this week.
"A century and a half of burning fossil fuels has led to a hotter climate than at any other time in human history. Warmer air holds more water, creating stronger storms. In the U.S. Midwest, climate change has made storms with severe winds five times more likely since the 1980s. Last year, wildfire smoke led to cancellations of concerts and sporting events across the U.S. and Canada," noted the article by Kendra Pierre-Lewis, an award-winning climate reporter.
Heat wave could bring flight delays, cancellations
Flight delays and cancellations are possible, as high temperatures can make it difficult for some planes to take off and land safely, noted USA Today. Nearly two-thirds of all delays are weather-related, the Federal Aviation Administration estimates.
Dozens of environmental, labor and health-care groups petitioned the Federal Emergency Management Agency on Monday to designate extreme heat and wildfire smoke as "major disasters," akin to floods and tornadoes. Such a designation would compel the federal government to assist states and local communities in covering the escalating costs of climate change.
Cities respond to heat emergency
Cities and states across affected regions have activated emergency response plans, opening cooling centers and disseminating safety guidelines to mitigate the impact of the heat wave.
Several major metropolitan areas, including Chicago, St. Louis, Detroit, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, New York City and Boston, are likely to break their all-time June high-temperature records. Some cities face potentially their longest heat waves in 30 years. Locations like Montpelier, Vt.; Syracuse, N.Y.; and Pittsburgh have not experienced such intense June heat in about three decades.
Record-breaking heat brings health concerns
According to the National Weather Service, heat-index readings will peak between 100 and 105 degrees in many locations. As the weekend approaches, the most intense heat will move south from New England toward the Northeast urban corridor and mid-Atlantic.
"The early onset of the heat, its prolonged duration and light winds will amplify the danger of this heat beyond the temperature readings," warns the NWS. This poses significant health risks, especially for vulnerable populations.
Authorities have issued widespread heat advisories, urging residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities and seek shelter in cooling centers as needed.
Planner Precautions: 7 Ways to Prepare for Bad Weather
- Develop heat safety plans: Include strategies for hydration stations, cooling areas and medical support.
- Monitor weather and air quality: Stay updated on local forecasts and air quality indices.
- Prepare for power strains: High temperatures can stress electrical grids. Have backup power sources for essential equipment.
- Communicate proactively: Keep attendees informed about potential changes or safety measures.
- Consider timing: If possible, schedule outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.
- Have indoor alternatives: Be prepared to move outdoor events indoors if necessary.
- Offer virtual options: Provide ways for attendees to participate remotely if travel is disrupted.