Over 185 Million Americans Endure Extreme Heatwave Across Eastern US
Published 28 July 2025
Highlights
- Over 185 million Americans are under heat advisories as extreme temperatures affect the eastern US.
- New York Governor Kathy Hochul emphasizes the danger of heat, the leading cause of weather-related fatalities in the state.
- Heat index values in the southeast could reach up to 120F, posing significant health risks.
- Cooling centers and extended pool hours are measures being taken to help residents cope with the heat.
- A cold front is expected to bring relief by the weekend, lowering temperatures across affected regions.
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Rewritten Article
Headline: Over 185 Million Americans Endure Extreme Heatwave Across Eastern US
As a severe heatwave grips the eastern United States, more than 185 million people are under heat advisories, with temperatures soaring to dangerous levels. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings across the midwest, southeast, and parts of the northeast, urging residents to stay indoors and seek air-conditioned environments.
Heatwave Impact and Safety Measures
In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has highlighted the lethal potential of extreme heat, which is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the state. "This extreme heat is dangerous and can be life-threatening," warned NYC Emergency Management on social media, advising people to remain indoors as much as possible. In response to the sweltering conditions, New York has extended swimming pool hours and established cooling centers to provide relief.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
The heatwave has shattered temperature records across several states. On Sunday, Tampa, Florida, reached an unprecedented 100F, surpassing its previous record of 99F set in 2020. Similarly, LaGuardia Airport in New York recorded a high of 100F on Tuesday, nearing its all-time record of 107F set in 1966.
Regional Heat Index and Forecast
The southeast is experiencing some of the most severe conditions, with heat index values—factoring in humidity—expected to reach between 105 and 113F. In parts of Mississippi and Louisiana, the heat index could soar to a staggering 120F. Cities such as St. Louis, Memphis, and Raleigh are also under extreme heat warnings, with temperatures climbing into the mid-90s and low 100s.
Relief is on the horizon, however, as a cold front is predicted to move in later this week, bringing a much-needed drop in temperatures by the weekend.
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Scenario Analysis
The ongoing heatwave underscores the growing impact of the climate crisis, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent and severe. As temperatures continue to rise, cities may need to invest more in infrastructure and resources to protect vulnerable populations. The anticipated cold front offers temporary relief, but experts warn that such heatwaves could become the norm if global temperatures continue to climb. Policymakers and communities must prioritize climate resilience and adaptation strategies to mitigate future risks.
As a severe heatwave grips the eastern United States, more than 185 million people are under heat advisories, with temperatures soaring to dangerous levels. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings across the midwest, southeast, and parts of the northeast, urging residents to stay indoors and seek air-conditioned environments.
Heatwave Impact and Safety Measures
In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has highlighted the lethal potential of extreme heat, which is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the state. "This extreme heat is dangerous and can be life-threatening," warned NYC Emergency Management on social media, advising people to remain indoors as much as possible. In response to the sweltering conditions, New York has extended swimming pool hours and established cooling centers to provide relief.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
The heatwave has shattered temperature records across several states. On Sunday, Tampa, Florida, reached an unprecedented 100F, surpassing its previous record of 99F set in 2020. Similarly, LaGuardia Airport in New York recorded a high of 100F on Tuesday, nearing its all-time record of 107F set in 1966.
Regional Heat Index and Forecast
The southeast is experiencing some of the most severe conditions, with heat index values—factoring in humidity—expected to reach between 105 and 113F. In parts of Mississippi and Louisiana, the heat index could soar to a staggering 120F. Cities such as St. Louis, Memphis, and Raleigh are also under extreme heat warnings, with temperatures climbing into the mid-90s and low 100s.
Relief is on the horizon, however, as a cold front is predicted to move in later this week, bringing a much-needed drop in temperatures by the weekend.
What this might mean
The ongoing heatwave underscores the growing impact of the climate crisis, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent and severe. As temperatures continue to rise, cities may need to invest more in infrastructure and resources to protect vulnerable populations. The anticipated cold front offers temporary relief, but experts warn that such heatwaves could become the norm if global temperatures continue to climb. Policymakers and communities must prioritize climate resilience and adaptation strategies to mitigate future risks.
