Extreme Heat, Flood Watches Grip Large Parts of U.S.

Extreme heat persists across much of the U.S., with Phoenix under an Extreme Heat Warning and temperatures nearing 115°F, and Southern Colorado experiencing mid to upper-90s with lower humidity. The Southeast and Mid-Atlantic face flood watches as slow-moving storms bring flash flooding threats to already saturated areas, while heat indices regularly exceed 100°F. Central Florida and much of the South continue to see highs in the 90s, high humidity, and daily chances for storms. Meteorologists warn that significant heat risks remain as summer officially begins, urging residents to take precautions. Unsettled weather patterns and upper-level disturbances will maintain hot and stormy conditions for much of the country through the weekend. The Gulf and Atlantic hurricane basins remain quiet as hurricane season progresses.