The summer of 2024 is set to begin with a significant heatwave across the East Coast and Midwest of the United States. Extreme temperatures are expected in major cities such as Chicago, New York City, and Boston, with forecasters predicting that the heat could last through Friday and possibly beyond.
A high-pressure system over the Ohio Valley is contributing to the conditions, leading to clear skies, stable air, and record-breaking temperatures in the 90s and higher, with some areas potentially reaching 105 degrees Fahrenheit. This heat surge is notable for its duration, possibly being the longest in decades for some locations, and temperatures are expected to be as much as 25 degrees above normal.


The National Weather Service has issued heat advisories and excessive heat watches for over 71 million Americans, and some schools, like those in Buffalo, have adjusted their schedules to cope with the extreme heat. Nighttime temperatures are not expected to provide much relief, only dipping into the upper 60s and 70s.


Additionally, there is a risk of flash flooding in the Dakotas and Minnesota, while parts of Texas and Louisiana may see rain pushing in from the Gulf of Mexico, potentially lasting until Wednesday. The National Weather Service is also monitoring the Gulf for any potential tropical storm development.