Intense Heat Persists Across Eastern U.S.

A potent heat wave will continue to bake the eastern U.S. Tuesday, sending heat index values well into the 100s and creating a significant risk of heat illness.

A ridge of high pressure will very slowly be nudged east Tuesday as a low pressure system swirls over the western U.S. This high pressure will allow for temperatures to be anywhere from 10 to 20 degrees above average for the middle of June. Southerly winds across the eastern U.S. will send gulf moisture streaming inland, not only making the afternoons feel hotter but also preventing cooling at night. Record highs temperatures will be observed in places such as Omaha, Neb., Madison, Wisc., Memphis, Indianapolis, Columbus, Ohio, Atlanta, Columbia, S.C., and Raleigh, N.C.

The most dangerous heat will be found where there is the most moisture, mainly in the Midwest and Southeast up into the Carolinas where heat index values could reach as high as 115 degrees. It will also be very hot in the southern Plains and into the Mississippi River Valley, but heat index values should only reach around 108 at most in these regions.

A Heat Advisory has been issued for locations near Louisville, Kent., Savannah, Ga., Tallahassee, Fla., Kansas City, Mo., Chicago, Little Rock, Ark., and Natchez, Miss., from Tuesday morning through Wednesday evening. An Excessive Heat Warning, for heat index values as high as 115 degrees, has been issued for Charlotte, Raleigh, and Wilmington, N.C., Bowling Green and Paducah, Ky., Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio, Evansville, Ind., Saint Louis, Mo., and Minneapolis, Minn. An Excessive Heat Watch is also in place for Detroit, Toledo, Ohio, and Charleston, W.V., for the same threat as the excessive heat warning but for lower forecast confidence.

As the low pressure area over the Pacific Northwest moves east this week, the Midwest will enjoy cooler temperatures beyond Thursday. Temperatures will soar on the plains and across the Desert Southwest where an Excessive Heat Watch has been issued for Phoenix and Tucson for Thursday due to concerns about high temperatures up to 114 degrees.

If you cannot avoid being outdoors, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, take breaks often, and wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. This type of heat may lead to heat-related illnesses like heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

It is important to check on those who are considered at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses, such as the elderly, children, and pets. Make sure to increase the intake of water and check the backseat before locking and leaving your vehicle.