The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory alerting multiple cities in the U.S. to brace for sizzling temperatures this week. The heatwave that hit southwestern states last week is now making its way into the Midwest, soon reaching southern and eastern regions of the country.
This week, severe heat watches and warnings are in effect, with some areas expecting temperatures to soar above 100 degrees. When the heat index, a combination of air temperature and humidity, ranges from 103 to 124 degrees, the NWS classifies it as “dangerous.”
Laredo and Brownsville in Texas are among the cities expected to experience dangerous heat with a forecasted heat index of 103 degrees next week. Corpus Christi and San Antonio in Texas are also on high alert for scorching temperatures.
Additionally, Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Scottsdale, Peoria, and Tempe in Arizona are anticipated to see 103-degree days. Key West and Tallahassee in Florida, as well as Kansas City in Missouri and Topeka in Kansas, are also in the danger zone for extreme heat.
A dome of scorching temperatures will descend on the West in early this week and then move across to the South & East of the United States by Wednesday. The Pacific Northwest will cool off by the weekend as these areas heat up. pic.twitter.com/jtvmZ0FLpX
— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) June 9, 2024
The NWS warns that precautions should be taken when the heat index falls into the “extreme caution” category, ranging from 90 to 103 degrees. This level indicates risks of heat stroke, cramps, and exhaustion due to the heat.
Humidity plays a crucial role in high-temperature conditions. When the body overheats, sweating is the natural cooling mechanism. However, in high humidity, sweat doesn’t evaporate efficiently, impeding the body’s cooling process.
The NWS advises staying indoors in air-conditioned spaces, wearing light clothing, avoiding strenuous activities in the heat, and checking on vulnerable individuals. Never leave pets or children in hot vehicles as temperatures inside can rise rapidly to dangerous levels.
Stay safe and keep cool during this scorching heatwave!