Widespread U.S. Heat as Cooler Pattern Ends

Much of the United States is now experiencing a period of hot and mostly dry weather, with temperatures reaching the low to mid 90s and even surpassing 100 degrees in areas such as Texas, South Dakota, and parts of the Mid-South. Isolated showers and storms remain possible but rain chances are generally low through the weekend, except for brief showers in the Pacific Northwest. Heat index values may exceed 100 degrees in cities like Memphis, leading to the potential for heat alerts if the trend continues. High-pressure systems are maintaining these conditions, though a cooldown is expected in the northern Plains by Friday. Air quality alerts and heat safety precautions are being emphasized due to persistent heat and humidity. Stable and sunny weather is forecast to persist into next week for many regions, with only slight chances of isolated rainfall.