Dangerous temperatures persist as heat dome blankets cities across the country for second week

Sixty-five million Americans from coast to coast are under heat alerts as the life-threatening heat dome continues for the second week.

The Northeast, Southeast and West all saw daily record temperatures shattered this weekend, including 98 degrees in Philadelphia; 100 degrees in Greenville, Mississippi; and 108 degrees in Merced, California.

This weekend, Washington, D.C., and Baltimore hit 100 degrees for the first time in June in 12 years.

On Monday, the dangerous heat is impacting the Southeast, the Deep South and the West.

Temperatures are forecast to soar to 96 degrees in Atlanta; 94 degrees in New Orleans and Nashville, Tennessee; 100 degrees in Little Rock, Arkansas; 99 degrees in Oklahoma City; 98 in Dallas; 109 in Phoenix; 97 in Salt Lake City; and a blistering 110 in Las Vegas and Palm Springs, California.

Areas in South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota that faced catastrophic flooding in recent days will also be dealing with the scorching heat on Monday.

This week, temperatures will remain extremely hot in the South, from Texas to Kansas to Arkansas to Florida.

The greatest heat risk will be in Oklahoma. Oklahoma City is under extreme heat risk — the highest level — due to the combination of hot afternoons and very warm nights.

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.

Click here for tips on how to stay safe in the heat.

As summer temperatures continue to soar across the country, a dangerous heat dome has settled over many cities for the second week in a row. This weather phenomenon, characterized by a high-pressure system that traps hot air and prevents it from escaping, has led to scorching temperatures and oppressive humidity levels in various regions.

The heat dome has caused temperatures to reach record-breaking levels in some areas, with heat advisories and excessive heat warnings issued by meteorologists. Cities such as Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles have experienced temperatures well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, while even traditionally cooler regions like the Pacific Northwest have seen unusually high temperatures.

The prolonged heat wave has raised concerns about the health and safety of residents, particularly vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with preexisting medical conditions. Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur when the body is unable to cool itself down effectively in extreme heat.

In addition to the health risks posed by the heat dome, the high temperatures can also have other negative impacts on communities. Infrastructure such as roads and power lines can be strained by the excessive heat, leading to potential disruptions in transportation and utility services. The heat can also exacerbate air pollution levels, creating poor air quality that can be harmful to respiratory health.

To stay safe during a heat dome event, it is important for individuals to take precautions to protect themselves from the extreme temperatures. This includes staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and seeking out air-conditioned spaces if possible. It is also important to check on vulnerable neighbors and loved ones to ensure they are staying cool and hydrated.

As climate change continues to impact weather patterns around the world, events like heat domes are likely to become more frequent and intense. It is crucial for communities to be prepared for extreme heat events and to take proactive measures to mitigate their impact on public health and safety.

In conclusion, the dangerous temperatures persisting as a heat dome blankets cities across the country for the second week serve as a stark reminder of the importance of being vigilant in the face of extreme weather events. By taking steps to stay safe and informed, individuals can help protect themselves and their communities from the potentially harmful effects of prolonged heat waves.