Triple-Digit Temperatures Building Across the Central and Eastern U.S.

Approximately 170 million Americans are going to be left sweltering in the days ahead as a heat dome sets up shop over the central and eastern portions of the country. Here is a look at the sizzling forecast.

Temperatures on Upward Trajectory, Supporting Development of Heat Wave

The first weekend of the astronomical summer is kicking off with the first major heat wave of the season. Temperatures will reach the century mark in many locations while increasing humidity levels send the real feel readings even higher. The intense sunshine of this time of the year will only serve to make it feel even toastier. Some areas may see new daily high records.

The soaring temperatures will be the result of a large heat dome that is moving from the western U.S. to the east as the weekend progresses. Overnight lows will remain on the warm side, making it difficult for many Americans to find any sort of lasting relief from the heat.

The warm overnight readings will also put a significant strain on the nation's energy grids as air conditioning units will be forced to run all day and night. For instance, some urban areas will not see the mercury fall below the 80-degree mark after the sun goes down.

It is important to remember that extreme heat is the leading cause of fatalities at the hands of the weather in the U.S. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), heat-related illnesses killed over 200 people in 2024. This figure was more significant than deaths attributed to tornadoes, flooding, and hurricanes combined.

Real feel readings will peak between 110 and 120 degrees, presenting potentially dangerous conditions for the elderly, young children, and those with underlying health conditions. Many cities are planning to open cooling centers for those who need to escape the heat.

The first major heat wave of the year can also catch people off guard. This elevates the risk of heat-related illnesses as bodies are not acclimated. Local officials are warning people to stay well-hydrated and take frequent breaks when spending time outside.

Timing of the Heat

The peak of the heat will happen during the middle or latter part of the wave. The recent rainfall over the region means that it will take a few days for the ground to sufficiently dry. The temperatures will climb further once the topsoil dries completely, sending the energy of the sun into the air rather than to the ground.

The bulk of the region will not see any significant precipitation in the next few days. The exception will be along the northern edge of the heat dome, where storms could erupt and trigger flooding downpours.

The good news is that the first weekend of the summer will also provide great weather for swimming and beach visits. It has been a rough start to the season for the mid-Atlantic and the Northeast with frequent bouts of rain and storms over the weekends. Beachgoers will also enjoy a bit of relief from the heat thanks to ocean breezes.

Despite the great weather forecast for the beaches, meteorologists are warning that water temperatures in lakes and the ocean could still be chilly enough to trigger cold water shock. It takes time for these bodies of water to warm sufficiently, raising the risk of muscle cramps and breathing difficulties for swimmers.

Peak water temperatures typically do not happen until the middle of August. Current readings in the Atlantic in New England and down into New Nersye are hovering in the 50s and 60s. Ocean water temperatures are trending in the 70s in the zone from the Delmarva Peninsula and down into Virginia and the Carolinas.

Specific City Forecasts

Chicago is bracing for the most powerful heat wave that the city has seen over the last few years. The Windy City should prepare for temperatures in the 90s for up to five days. The peak of the heat is forecast for Monday with a high of about 95 degrees under plentiful sunshine.