Millions of Americans across almost a dozen states were instructed to stay out of the sun and limit outdoor activities, as the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a sweeping series of extreme heat warnings and advisories amid dangerous temperatures.
Dozens of cities in 11 states throughout the South, Midwest, and Southwest face dangerous heat, prompting health alerts and safety guidance for vulnerable communities.
Why It Matters
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned that extreme heat is the deadliest weather phenomenon in the United States, causing more than 700 deaths annually. Vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, and people with chronic health conditions, face elevated risks of heat-related illness such as heat stroke and exhaustion. Rising temperatures also amplify ground-level ozone pollution, compounding risks for those with asthma or heart complaints.
What To Know
According to the NWS Extreme Heat Warning map and recent reports, extreme heat warnings are in effect for 11 states—affecting hundreds of cities and millions of residents.
The hardest-hit areas were parts of Iowa, southwest Minnesota, northeast Nebraska, and most of South Dakota. These regions are forecast to experience heat index values at or above 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
In their statements on the heat warning, the NWS advised: “Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.”
Officials reiterated not to leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, as car interiors can reach deadly temperatures within minutes.
“For the Heat Advisory, warm and muggy conditions will continue early this morning. For the Extreme Heat Warning, dangerously hot conditions with heat index values 111 to 115 expected,” the NWS said.
Simultaneously, less severe heat advisories stretch across the South, Midwest, and Northeast—including Georgia and southeast South Carolina, where forecast heat index values routinely top 100 F.
Cities across affected regions have opened cooling centers for residents without air conditioning, with officials encouraging people to stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
The exact temperature thresholds that trigger heat advisories vary geographically, but all current warnings indicate conditions that push the human body beyond normal heat tolerance limits.
What People Are Saying
The NWS in Phoenix, Arizona, said in a statement on Sunday: “Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay in the shade, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
“Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
“Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”
What Happens Next
At the time of publication, the latest extreme heat warnings remain in effect until at least 9 p.m. CDT Thursday, with the NWS advising residents to stay informed as conditions may shift.
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