The National Weather Service (NWS) announced on 30/6 that the heat index, a combination of temperature and humidity, had exceeded 37.8 degrees C in many parts of the Midwest and Great Lakes states, creating "dangerous conditions" for public health.
The NWS warned of the risk of heat stroke and heat-related illnesses, especially for families without air conditioning. The agency advised residents to "stay in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible, even at night" and regularly check on the health of the elderly, those with underlying medical conditions, and households without cooling equipment.
The US heat warning map showed the Midwest and Great Lakes regions designated as "Extreme Heat", the highest alert level on a three-tier scale. This warning is issued when extremely dangerous heat is occurring or imminent, and residents should minimize outdoor activities.
Many areas in Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and most of Iowa are currently under this alert.
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The highest US warning for extreme heat covered the entire Midwest region on 30/6. *Graphic: NWS*
The two lower alert levels are "Extreme Heat Watch", issued when extreme heat is possible but its timing and impact are unclear, and "Heat Advisory", applied when hot weather reaches concerning levels.
In Detroit, Michigan, temperatures hovered around 35-37 degrees C and could reach nearly 38 degrees C until the end of 2/7. City authorities opened 12 recreation centers, some operating until 11 p.m., to provide residents with places to escape the heat.
The heatwave is expected to spread to the Northeast, including New York and Boston, just in time for US Independence Day on 4/7. Norristown, about 32 km from Philadelphia, canceled its parade scheduled for the weekend due to warnings of severe weather.
Philadelphia declared a heat emergency from 1-4/7 and opened 50 cooling centers for residents. The city also set up misting tents, water stations, and medical aid posts in the World Cup fan festival area at East Fairmount Park.
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Americans cool off at a fire hydrant in Chicago, Illinois, on 30/6. *Photo: AP*
In Illinois, the Chicago History Museum offered free admission to local residents seeking refuge from the heat. High temperatures also caused buckling and cracking on road surfaces in some areas.
Doctor Kisha Davis, a health official for Montgomery county, Maryland, warned that nighttime temperatures in many areas would remain between 21-27 degrees C, preventing bodies from naturally cooling down.
"Heat stress will accumulate day by day," she stated, referring to the body's excessive heat load from the environment. She also advised residents to limit alcohol and soft drink consumption during the holiday weekend, as these beverages can lead to faster dehydration.
Thanh Danh (According to AP, NWS)
