Central U.S. Hit by Heat Dome, 80 Million Under Advisories

A sprawling heat dome settled over much of the central United States on Saturday, driving dangerously high temperatures that are expected to linger into next week. The high‑pressure system traps hot air, preventing it from dissipating and pushing daily highs well above normal for the season. The National Weather Service issued heat advisories for roughly 80 million people across states ranging from Texas to the Great Lakes, with forecasts calling for temperatures to reach 100 °F (38 °C) in several locations and to exceed 95 °F (35 °C) across a broader swath of the region.

Authorities warned that prolonged exposure to such extreme heat could exacerbate health risks, strain power grids, and increase the likelihood of wildfires. Emergency managers in affected states have activated cooling centers and urged residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity, and check on vulnerable neighbors. The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the dome’s intensity and provide updates as the situation evolves, emphasizing the importance of adhering to heat safety guidelines while the high‑pressure pattern persists.