Extreme heat affecting a wide area from the east to the west of the United States will continue through the July 4 Independence Day weekend. The National Weather Service announced that "dangerous and locally record-level" temperatures will cover two-thirds of the country.
It was stated that high temperatures and humidity pose a risk especially for the elderly and those with respiratory illnesses in Ohio, parts of North Carolina, and the capital Washington DC. Extreme heat warnings were issued in parts of Iowa, Missouri, and Kansas.
What is a heat dome?
Experts attribute the extreme heat to an atmospheric phenomenon called a "heat dome." In this system, a high-pressure area remains stationary over a region for a long time, trapping hot air near the ground. Solar heat accumulates at the surface but cannot rise due to the warmer air layer above. As a result, temperatures do not drop for days or even weeks, and there is no cooling at night.
National Weather Service meteorologist Brian Putnam said, "Even when temperatures are around 32-37 degrees Celsius, it is oppressive, but when humidity is added, the heat index rises above 40 degrees Celsius." Putnam emphasized that the risk will continue in the western part of the country after July 4, and that those spending time outdoors during the holiday weekend should be careful.
Health risks and warnings
Officials called on residents in extreme heat areas to take precautions in advance. The Missouri Emergency Management Agency invited everyone to "plan for the heat and avoid staying outdoors for long periods if possible." It was requested that immediate action be taken at any sign of heat-related illness.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion, heat rash, and heat stroke. Symptoms include nausea, headache, confusion, and dizziness. New York Health Commissioner Alister Martin said that heat stroke develops rapidly, can be fatal, but is preventable.
The CDC warned that heat stroke can result in death or permanent disability if emergency medical treatment is not provided. Symptoms of heat stroke include difficulty thinking, speech impairment, and loss of consciousness. Martin also recommended using air conditioning, drinking plenty of water, and checking on neighbors.
