Summer Sizzler Continues From The Plains To East Coast

The last few days of July will be a scorcher for a large portion of the U.S. as heat indices reach the 100s and 110s.

A large upper-level ridge of high pressure over the southern U.S. will pump plenty of hot and humid air into the eastern two-thirds of the U.S. during the first half of the week. High temperatures will be as much as 15 degrees above the normal for this time of year.

Highs will generally peak in the 90s across the central and southern Plains, most of the Mississippi Valley, Midwest, Deep South, and Southeast. There will also be areas that see the mercury max out in the triple digits in the central and southern Plains, Lower Mississippi Valley, and Southeast. Even the Great Lakes, Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic will see highs in the lower 90s.

Combine this heat with high humidity and it will feel even hotter! Heat index values for most areas will soar up to 100 to 110 degrees, but a few spots could experience heat indices as high as 115 degrees.

Extreme Heat Warnings are in effect across the central Plains into much of the Mississippi Valley, across the St. Louis metro area, parts of the Ohio Valley, and from northeastern Florida up through the eastern Carolinas. Otherwise, extensive Heat Advisories are in place throughout the eastern Plains, Mississippi Valley, Midwest, Deep South, and most of the Eastern Seaboard.

Tampa officially hit 100 degrees for the first time in recorded history on July 27. This historic milestone meant breaking the previous all-time high of 99 degrees, which was last reached on June 26, 2020. Charlotte, N.C., reached 101 degrees on July 26, eclipsing the previous daily record of 100 degrees set in 2005.

A potent cold front will drop south across the central and eastern U.S. for the second half of the work week. Temperatures will trend closer to average for most areas, though extreme heat could continue in the southern Plains and Southeast.

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.