By Montserrat Arqué
29 Jul 2024, 15:39 PM EDT
A new wave of extreme heat is expected to hit much of the United States starting Monday. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), this phenomenon will extend practically throughout the month of August, affecting almost all of the 48 continental states.
A heat dome will form over the central and southern parts of the country, bringing with it extremely high temperatures. This weather pattern will impact states that have already suffered high temperatures in recent weeks.
On Monday, the central and southern Plains will be particularly hard hit, with temperatures expected to exceed 100°F (37.7°C). By early August, highs above 90°F (32.2°C) will stretch from coast to coast.
The NWS uses a scale of 0 to 4 to measure heat severity, with levels 2 (moderate) and 3 (severe) expected across much of the country. Specific hotspots, including Wichita, Kansas; Amarillo, Texas; and Kansas City, Missouri, will see levels 4 (extreme). This level indicates extreme heat that affects all those without access to adequate cooling and can have severe impacts on health, industry, and infrastructure.
Extreme and prolonged heat forecast
The Central Plains should brace for the most persistent and extreme heat, with temperatures 10 to 15° above normal. At least 5 consecutive days of highs of 100 to 105°F (37.7 to 40.5°C) are expected in this region. In the Texas Panhandle, Oklahoma, and Kansas, temperatures could challenge records, reaching 105 to 110°F (40.5 to 43.3°C), and potentially exceeding 110°F (40.5°C) in some areas. Heat will also extend into eastern Colorado and New Mexico.
The heat intensity is reported to be more prolonged in the western states. During the second week of August, a powerful heat dome is projected over the region, intensifying the drought and increasing the risk of fires. This is particularly worrying in areas where there are already active fires.