Heatwave Alert: Forecast Predicts Dangerously Hot Weather Across 10 East Coast Cities

The Western regions are still recovering from a 10-day siege of record high temperatures, but the core of extreme heat has now shifted toward the East Coast. Starting the new week, around 100 million people from Florida to Maine are under heat alerts. Unfortunately, there’s no respite envisaged, with the intense heat predicted to persist for several more days.

Major cities such as Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and a sizable part of eastern North Carolina and Southeast Virginia are witnessing excessive-heat warnings, the highest level alert. In these territories, daylight highs are predicted to rise close to 100 degrees with heat indexes (considering humidity) reaching between 105 and 110 degrees. Heat advisories for a comparatively less intense heat and humidity are in effect across Boston, New York, Richmond, and Raleigh, NC.

Towards Record-Breaking Highs

The National Weather Service describes the situation as “extremely dangerous and potentially deadly heat.” Temperatures throughout these regions remain much warmer than normal during nighttime, offering little relief. So far, several records have been set, including in DC, which registered a punishing 101 degrees.

A City-By-City Analysis

Washington and Baltimore

Both cities have recorded more triple-digit highs in the days ahead with only a handful of afternoon storms providing minimal respite from the steamy conditions. The heat index is likely to hover around 105 or 110 through at least Tuesday.

Philadelphia and New York

The on-going hot, humid, and hazy conditions show no signs of respite. Heat indexes will hover around 105 or higher Monday and Tuesday, with overnight lows stopping just shy of 80. In New York, rain unfortunately only serves to increase humidity levels and doesn’t alleviate the heat.

Boston, Charlotte, and Charleston

There’s no reprieve for the citizens of Boston, Charlotte, and Charleston either. Sun is expected to shine brightly throughout Monday and Tuesday, pushing the mercury to the mid-90s. Charleston, due to extreme humidity and sky-high temperatures, may see the heat index approach an unbearable 115.

Raleigh and Hartford

Raleigh already had a record-breaking hot day on July 5 when it soared to 106 degrees. Though it’s not as hot this week, multiple days with a heat index over 105 will definitely take their toll. Meanwhile, Hartford, having experienced 17 days of at least 90 degrees this year, is once again bracing for heat indexes to flit around 100 this week.

Stay Safe: Precautionary Measures

With the relentless heat dominating large parts of the country, it’s critical to take precautionary measures seriously. Ensure you stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak hours of the day, and try to stay in cooled areas as much as possible. Be wary of the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially in the elderly, children, and pets.

Understanding the Science

Sprawling zones of high pressure, colloquially referred to as “heat domes,” fuel these heat waves. Increased temperatures lead to more evaporation, causing the air to hold more moisture, hence leading to extreme humidity. Global warming is believed to increase the frequency and severity of these heatwaves as it increases average global temperatures.