The hottest weather of the season is spreading across the eastern half of the U.S. — with cities in the Northeast in the bull’s-eye on Wednesday — after baking the Midwest with extreme temperatures early in the week.
Chicago’s actual temperature hit 99 degrees on Tuesday, breaking the city’s daily record of 97 degrees. The heat index — what temperature it feels like with humidity — soared to a scorching 115 degrees in Chicago on Tuesday.
On Wednesday, heat advisories are in effect from St. Louis, Missouri, to New York City. An excessive heat warning was issued in Philadelphia, where the heat index could hit 105 degrees.
The heat index is forecast to rise Wednesday to 106 degrees in Baltimore, Maryland; 103 in Washington, D.C.; and 97 in New York City.
Extreme heat index on Aug. 28, 2024.
ABC News Illustration
The final tennis major of the year, the U.S. Open, which is underway in New York City, is operating under an “extreme weather policy,” with stadium roofs partially closed and extended breaks for players.
Washington, D.C., hit 100 degrees on Wednesday, shattering the city’s daily record.
People sit in the shade in Bryant Park amid hot and humid temperatures on Aug. 28, 2024 in New York City.
Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images
The extreme temperatures will end in the Northeast on Thursday, but will linger in the Ohio Valley and Tennessee Valley through Friday.
On Thursday, the heat index is forecast to climb to 104 degrees in Nashville, Tennessee, and Columbia, South Carolina; 102 degrees in Raleigh, North Carolina, and Louisville, Kentucky; and 105 degrees in Greenville, Mississippi.
Record highs are possible Thursday in cities including Nashville and Louisville.
Extreme heat index on Aug. 29, 2024.
ABC News
There are hundreds of deaths each year in the U.S. due to excessive heat, according to CDC WONDER, an online database, and scientists caution that the actual number of heat-related deaths is likely higher.
Last year marked the most heat-related deaths in the U.S. on record, according to JAMA, a peer-reviewed medical journal published by the American Medical Association.
Click here for tips on how to stay safe in the heat.
A dangerous heat wave has swept through the Northeastern United States this summer, bringing scorching temperatures and high humidity levels that have left residents sweltering in the oppressive heat. From New York City to Boston, cities and towns across the region have been experiencing record-breaking temperatures, with some areas reaching well into the triple digits.
The extreme heat has prompted health officials to issue warnings about the dangers of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These conditions can be life-threatening if not treated promptly, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and individuals with preexisting health conditions.
In response to the heat wave, many cities have opened cooling centers and public pools to provide relief for residents without access to air conditioning. Officials are also urging people to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and check on elderly neighbors and relatives to ensure their safety.
The heat wave is a stark reminder of the impact of climate change on our daily lives. As global temperatures continue to rise, extreme weather events such as heat waves are becoming more frequent and intense. It is crucial that we take action to reduce our carbon footprint and mitigate the effects of climate change in order to protect our communities and future generations.
In the meantime, it is important for residents in the Northeast to take precautions during this heat wave to stay safe and healthy. By staying informed, staying cool, and looking out for one another, we can weather this dangerous heat wave and emerge stronger on the other side.
