More than 130 million people brace for sweltering conditions across most of the US

The United States is bracing for a dangerous heatwave that is expected to affect more than 130 million people across the country. The extreme heat is forecasted to impact most of the country, with some areas experiencing particularly sweltering conditions.

The Southeast coast, from Savannah, Georgia, to Virginia Beach, Virginia, is expected to bear the brunt of the heatwave. Extreme heat warnings are in effect for this region, with heat indices reaching between 108 and 116 degrees. The Midwest, including cities like Lincoln, Nebraska, and Minneapolis, is also expected to experience high temperatures, with heat indices ranging from 97 to 111 degrees.

Cities like Charleston, West Virginia, and St. Louis, Missouri, are under extreme heat warnings as well, with feels-like temperatures expected to be between 102 and 112 degrees. Heat advisories have been issued for several other cities, including Dallas, Texas; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Indianapolis, Indiana; Tampa, Florida; Little Rock, Arkansas; Kansas City, Missouri; and Washington, D.C., with heat indices expected to range from the 90s up to 110 degrees.

Looking ahead to the work week, heat advisories are expected to continue for parts of the I-95 corridor from Boston to New York City, with heat indices in the mid-90s to 105 degrees. The heatwave is forecasted to persist across the eastern half of the country through Wednesday, with major cities like St. Louis, Memphis, Charlotte, Savannah, Tampa, and Jackson, Mississippi, experiencing actual temperatures in the upper 90s to low 100s. Feels-like temperatures are expected to reach between 105 to 115 degrees over multiple consecutive days.

Overnight and early morning temperatures are not expected to provide relief from the heatwave, with lows only falling to the 70s or higher. The Southeast is expected to be under an extreme heat risk, with cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and others facing four-out-of-four level heat risk.

In addition to the heatwave, parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula are at risk for severe thunderstorms. Flights have been impacted by thunderstorms in the northeast, with cancellations and delays affecting travel plans nationwide.

As the country prepares for the sweltering conditions, it is important for individuals to take precautions to stay safe and cool during the heatwave. Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, and seek out air-conditioned spaces to protect yourself from the extreme heat.