A record-breaking heat wave has swept across the U.S. Midwest this week, placing over 60 million Americans under heat alerts. States like Illinois, Iowa, and Kansas are experiencing rare \"extreme heat\" conditions, as reported by the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS).
Chicago finds itself at the heart of an excessive heat warning, which extends north to Madison, Wisconsin, and south to Springfield, Illinois. The powerful late-season high-pressure system has driven temperatures to unprecedented levels, with heat indices soaring between 105-115 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 40.5-46 degrees Celsius).
The NWS Weather Prediction Center has warned that this dangerous heat wave will likely expand beyond the Midwest early this week, spreading into the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions by mid-week. Low temperatures are expected to remain in the mid to upper 70s, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Public cooling centers have been established across several Midwest states in anticipation of the extreme temperatures. Additionally, the intense heat has led to early dismissals and canceled classes in several school districts throughout the U.S. Upper Midwest and Northeast.
The combination of high heat and humidity poses significant health risks, and residents are urged to take necessary precautions to stay safe during this unprecedented weather event.
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Millions of Americans under alert as heat wave hits U.S. Midwest
cgtn.com
