Extreme heat warning today: Stay safe as dangerous high temperatures hit multiple states in U.S.

Heat alerts were issued in 22 U.S. states on Friday. The National Weather Service warned of “dangerously hot conditions” in some regions. A major heat wave started Friday and will last into next week. Nearly one-third of the U.S. population could face high heat, as per AccuWeather.

Where are the warnings?

Extreme heat warnings are in place for parts of Iowa, Arizona, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. These areas may feel triple-digit heat index values, how hot it feels including humidity.

Extreme Heat Watches, a heads-up alert are out for Michigan, Ohio, Missouri, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Illinois, Indiana, and Delaware. Heat Advisories, less severe, still dangerous are in Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky, Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, as per National Weather Service, as per reports.

Why it matters

Being outside too long without water or cooling can cause heat illnesses. Heat stress symptoms include headaches, tiredness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and pink or red skin, as per Western Iowa Today.

Experts opinion

The “hottest temperatures of the season” will begin in the Plains and then hit the Midwest and Great Lakes. By the weekend, the heat will spread to the East Coast and Ohio Valley, and last through next week.

AccuWeather’s Adam Douty said heat will peak this weekend in the Plains and Midwest, then shift East early next week. Temps will cool a bit mid-week, but still stay above normal, according to Newsweek.

What’s a heat dome?

A heat dome happens when strong high pressure traps hot air in one area. It keeps out clouds and rain, making it extra sunny and hot. It can stick around for days or weeks with weak winds.

Ben Noll, meteorologist at The Washington Post, said this dome will form Friday and last about a week. Numerous temperature records may break during this time, as per reports.

What you should do?

• Drink lots of water

• Stay in cool, air-conditioned places

• Try not to go out in the sun

• Check on older people and neighbors

• Never leave kids or pets in the car

• If you go outside, wear light clothes and don’t do too much

• If you start feeling sick, go inside and cool down right away

Regional highlights

In Southwest Iowa, heat index values will hit 105 to 110°F. Warning in effect Saturday noon to Sunday 9 PM for counties like Douglas, Todd, Morrison, Otter Tail, and more in Minnesota, as per reports.

Nighttime temps in these areas will stay in the mid-70s to low 80s, so no real break from the heat.

FAQs

Q1. What is an extreme heat warning?
An extreme heat warning means very high temperatures are expected, which can be dangerous to health.

Q2. What states are under an extreme heat warning today?
States like Iowa, Arizona, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin are affected.