Eastern U.S. Faces Major Heat Wave With Record Highs

A rare and dangerous heat wave is affecting the Midwest and eastern United States, with temperatures and heat indices soaring well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit in cities such as Chicago, Pittsburgh, Columbus, New York City, Boston, and Washington, D.C. The heat wave, driven by a strong high-pressure system over the Midwest, is expected to persist into the coming week, breaking numerous record highs across the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, Ohio Valley, and Great Lakes regions. Local officials have issued widespread heat advisories, warnings, and watches, with cities like New York activating emergency heat plans and opening cooling centers to protect vulnerable populations from life-threatening conditions. Mayors and emergency management officials are urging residents to limit outdoor activities and electricity use during peak hours to mitigate risks. Meanwhile, the Atlantic hurricane season has started quietly with no storms before July 1, contrasting with an active Pacific season, influenced by atmospheric conditions that have suppressed tropical development in the Atlantic. This quiet Atlantic season coincides with the ongoing heat wave that is expected to affect tens of millions of Americans in the eastern half of the country.