US Heat Dome Returns: Millions Brace for Extreme Heat

An expansive heat dome is poised to blanket the central United States this weekend and into next week, affecting more than 50 million people. States stretching from Texas to North Dakota will experience intense heat, sticky humidity, and significant temperature spikes.

Currently, Texas and parts of the Southwest are under dangerous heat conditions, with heat index values soaring above 105°F. Dallas has seen temperatures reach 100°F and above for consecutive days, with forecasts predicting this trend will continue into early next week. Northern-central states like Kansas and Nebraska experienced some respite but are expected to see temperatures exceed 100°F again soon.

Forecasters predict that temperatures over 100°F will surge in Missouri, the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Wyoming, while surrounding areas will also be very hot. Even temperatures above 80°F can pose health risks, with danger escalating above 103°F. Previous heat dome events this month caused infrastructure issues and canceled celebrations.

Experts attribute the increasing frequency and intensity of heat domes to human-caused climate change, which is also making summers hotter and longer, extending into the fall. Heat is already the leading weather-related cause of death in the U.S., responsible for approximately 2,000 fatalities annually.