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Extreme heat and humidity grip eastern United States

09:00
Extreme heat and humidity grip eastern United States
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A severe heatwave is currently affecting the eastern third of the United States, with record-breaking temperatures and dangerously high humidity levels reported across dozens of states. On Friday, July 25 and Saturday, July 26, perceived temperatures climbed as high as 113°F (45°C) in North Carolina.

More than 100 million Americans are expected to be impacted by this extreme weather event, which stretches from Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Nebraska all the way to the Atlantic Coast. According to data from ABC News, temperatures are dangerously high in major cities: 108°F (42°C) in Little Rock, 106°F (41°C) in Washington D.C., 104°F (40°C) in Boston and New York, 102°F (39°C) in Miami, and 97°F (36°C) in Houston.

The extreme conditions are being intensified by high humidity, making the air feel heavier and more suffocating. The U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) has issued major heat alerts across affected regions, warning that “anyone without adequate cooling systems could be at serious risk.” The agency described the heatwave as “dangerous.”

The peak of the heat is expected to hit the central U.S. over the weekend, especially in North Carolina, where the capital city Raleigh is forecasted to experience 99°F (37°C) and a heat index of 113°F (45°C).

Fortunately, relief may come soon, as temperatures are predicted to drop below 86°F (30°C) by the end of the weekend.



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