Blistering Heat From the Southern Plains to Great Lakes

A dome of intense heat and humidity will continue to expand across the central U.S. into the Great Lakes today. 

A corridor of dry weather under high pressure will be found from the southern Plains through the Ohio Valley and into the Great Lakes today. Late-day showers and thunderstorms may cut into the heat across the Great Lakes, but no relief from the heat will be felt farther to the south and southwest. 

High temperatures in the 90s will be common from Texas and Oklahoma eastward through Mississippi then northward into lower Michigan. These are the areas currently under Heat Advisories for today. When combined with dew points in the 70s, it will feel like it's in the upper 90s and lower 100s. Cities such as Dallas, Oklahoma City, Nashville, Tenn., Chicago, Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Cleveland, Ohio, and Detroit are included in these advisories. 

Areas near the Mississippi River will be exceptionally hot and humid today. Afternoon temperatures will peak in the upper 90s to lower 100s. When combined with the high humidity in place, it could feel as hot as 110 to 115 degrees! Excessive Heat Warnings are found across portions of northeastern Louisiana, western Mississippi, central and eastern Arkansas, western Tennessee, western Kentucky, southeastern Missouri, and southern Illinois. Cities such as Jackson, Miss., Little Rock, Ark., Memphis, Tenn., and St. Louis are included in these warnings. 

Heat Advisories also dot portions of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic for today and Friday as the heat looks to expand into these regions ahead of an advancing cold front. There are even a few Excessive Heat Warnings in effect across northern Delaware, southeastern Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, which includes Philadelphia. 

If you must go outdoors, prepare by staying hydrated and keep a watchful eye for any signs of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Wear the right clothing, such as loose-fitting, lightweight and breathable fabrics, and take many breaks within a cool and shaded area.

Make sure to take extra precautions for children and the elderly as they are more susceptible to heat-related illness. Never leave children or animals alone in a locked vehicle as it can become dangerous and potentially fatal. Do not forget to download the WeatherBug app to stay up to date on the latest for this dangerous western heatwave.