Brace Yourself: Scorching Heat Dome Pushes Temperatures to Triple Digits | CNN

The eastern United States is about to face its hottest stretch of the year as a heat dome builds over the weekend. This weather event will bring dangerous temperatures to millions, especially starting Sunday.

For now, the East is enjoying a break from the recent heat wave. However, a surge of extreme temperatures is predicted starting Sunday, with thermometers soaring significantly higher.

According to the National Weather Service, tens of millions from the Midwest to the East Coast will encounter a level 4 out of 4 extreme heat risk from Sunday through at least Thursday. Long-lasting heat waves are unusual, and the agency warns that many people may not find relief, especially at night.

Highs in parts of the Plains, Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast are expected to reach at least 15 degrees above normal. It could feel as hot as 110 degrees with humidity, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region.

The peak heat is anticipated in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic early next week, with New York City seeing highs around 97 degrees and Washington, D.C. possibly hitting 100 degrees. Boston may experience temperatures around 90 to 94 degrees, just shy of breaking records.

Over 250 daily temperature records could fall on Monday and Tuesday. Many of these records come from places that have been monitoring weather for over a century.

Heat is the deadliest form of extreme weather in the U.S., leading to more than 800 deaths each year, as noted in a recent study. Days with extreme heat lead to spikes in emergency room visits for heat-related illnesses, especially when humidity keeps temperatures high at night.

Interestingly, nighttime temperatures are warming faster than daytime highs because of climate change. This trend makes it harder for the body to cool down, increasing the risk of heat-related health issues.

The upcoming heat wave coincides with the start of summer. The summer solstice occurred recently, marking the longest day of the year. This time of year means more solar energy is available, which can fuel extreme heat events.

While the solstice marks the official start of summer, meteorologists often consider June 1 as the beginning based on typical seasonal weather patterns.

Although this early stretch of heat may be daunting, it’s just a taste of what is likely to come. In most parts of the country, the warmest days typically occur in July and August. In fact, the most intense heat often lies ahead.

This upcoming wave is likely a preview of a challenging summer, though it is expected to ease by the end of next week.

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