In the coming days, the eastern half of the United States will experience some of the hottest temperatures of the year. This intense heat is caused by a powerful weather pattern known as a heat dome, which is expected to develop over the weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a level 4-of-4 extreme heat risk alert for tens of millions of people from the Midwest to the East Coast, lasting from Sunday through at least Thursday. This prolonged heat wave is unusual and may offer little to no relief at night, posing significant risks to those without proper cooling or hydration.

The Plains, Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast regions are expected to see temperatures soar to at least 15 degrees above normal next week. These high temperatures, combined with humidity, could make it feel as hot as 110 degrees, especially in the Mid-Atlantic. The Northeast and Mid-Atlantic will experience the peak of this heat early next week. For instance, New York City is forecasted to reach around 97 degrees from Sunday to Tuesday, potentially breaking daily records. Washington, D. C. , could see temperatures hit 100 degrees, matching or breaking records on both days. Boston is expected to see temperatures around 90 degrees on Monday and 94 on Tuesday, close to the daily records set in the mid-90s.

Over 250 daily temperature records could be broken on Monday and Tuesday, including both record highs and record warm lows. Many of these records date back to the early 1900s, highlighting the severity of this heat wave. Heat is the deadliest form of extreme weather in the US, contributing to more than 800 deaths annually on average since 1999. This heat wave is particularly dangerous because it will last for several days, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses and deaths.

The summer solstice occurred on Friday, marking the longest day of the year. This means more solar energy is available to fuel extreme heat, making this heat wave even more intense. While the summer solstice signals the start of astronomical summer, meteorologists consider June 1 the beginning of summer, using calendar months to align with seasonal weather patterns. This early-season heat wave is likely just a preview of what's to come, as the hottest weeks of the year typically occur in July or August for most of the country.

Climate change is making nighttime temperatures warmer faster than daytime highs. This trend makes it harder for the body to cool down and recover, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. As the planet warms, heat waves like this one are expected to become more frequent and severe, posing significant public health challenges. It's crucial for people to stay hydrated, seek shade, and use air conditioning when possible to stay safe during this heat wave.

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