New England faces six‑day heat wave with temperatures near 100°F

Extreme heat warnings have been issued for southern New England as a six‑day heat wave moves in, with daytime highs expected to reach the 90s and potentially hit 100°F in Boston on Thursday and Friday. The prolonged heat, coupled with high humidity, is projected to push heat indexes above 110°F, creating dangerous conditions for outdoor activities and increasing strain on air‑conditioning systems.

Meteorologists explain that an atmospheric “cap” of warm air aloft is suppressing storm development, but could break later in the week, leading to severe thunderstorms. The high dew points make sweat evaporation less efficient, reducing the body’s natural cooling mechanism and heightening discomfort and health risks for residents.

Officials advise people to schedule strenuous tasks for early morning, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable individuals as nighttime temperatures remain above 75°F, limiting recovery.