A massive and persistent heat dome is baking the Central and Southeastern United States this week, putting more than 85 million Americans under heat warnings and advisories. The intense conditions, driven by a high-pressure system and amplified by extreme humidity, are expected to continue into next week.
Blistering Temperatures and Extreme Humidity
Temperatures across the region are soaring, with heat index values between 105°F and 115°F reported in cities from the Gulf Coast to the Midwest, including Chicago, St. Louis, Nashville, and Atlanta. The oppressive heat is a result of stagnant, moisture-laden air being trapped beneath a high-pressure ridge an atmospheric phenomenon known as a heat dome.
“Corn Sweat” Making Conditions Worse
In the nation’s Corn Belt, an unusual factor is compounding the discomfort: “corn sweat.” As millions of acres of corn reach peak pollination, the plants are releasing thousands of gallons of water per acre each day through evapotranspiration. This moisture is significantly boosting humidity levels, driving up the “feels like” temperature even further.
Meteorologists say this effect is creating a “sauna-like” environment across parts of Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri.
Health and Safety Concerns Escalate
Officials are urging residents to take precautions as the risk of heat-related illnesses increases sharply. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses are especially at risk. Public cooling centers have opened in many cities, and authorities are advising people to:
Stay indoors during peak heat hours (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Drink plenty of water even if not thirsty
Avoid strenuous outdoor activity
Check in on neighbors, seniors, and pets
Severe Storms on the Edge: A “Ring of Fire”
While the center of the heat dome remains dry and stifling, its edges are spawning dangerous thunderstorms in what meteorologists call a “ring of fire.” These storms are producing damaging winds, large hail, and flash flooding across the Midwest, Ohio Valley, and parts of the Southeast.
The National Weather Service has placed over 50 million people under flood watches or severe thunderstorm warnings, particularly across Kentucky, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and southern Ohio.
Forecast: No Immediate Relief in Sight
Forecasters warn that the heat dome is likely to persist through the weekend and into early next week, offering little relief for already-overheated communities. The storm threat along the dome’s perimeter is also expected to continue, with additional rounds of heavy rain likely in the Upper Midwest and Northeast.
