Heat Wave, Safety Protocols Across Northeast and Midwest

Hot and humid weather is forecast for much of the Northeast and Midwest, including Connecticut, New Jersey, Boston, Pittsburgh, and Chicago, with temperatures expected to reach the upper 80s and 90s. Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont has activated the state's hot weather protocol from Monday through Thursday, opening cooling centers to assist residents as high heat and humidity persist. Air quality is predicted to remain 'moderate,' but vulnerable groups are advised to take precautions. New Jersey and Pittsburgh are also expected to experience increased heat and humidity, with afternoon thunderstorms possible midweek as a surface trough and cold front move through. Boston will begin the weekend mildly before heat and humidity intensify next week, while Chicago faces similar conditions and a slight chance of storms. Residents across these regions are urged to stay hydrated, seek shade, and monitor both weather and air quality updates.