U.S. Heat Dome Breaks Records Across 48 States

A powerful heat dome has settled over the contiguous United States, trapping hot air and pushing temperatures 15‑25 °F (8‑14 °C) above normal. Forecasts call for triple‑digit highs in the Southwest and Great Plains and record‑breaking overnight lows in the South, with more than 90 local temperature records expected to be tied or broken, two‑thirds of them at night.

Temperatures above 100 °F are forecast for North Dakota through Tuesday, while Las Vegas may reach 111 °F. Coastal cities such as Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Tampa, Galveston and Charleston are not expected to drop below 80 °F at night. The dome is expected to affect up to two‑thirds of the continental U.S. for a week or more, raising fire risk in the Rockies and worsening heat‑related health threats, especially for the elderly, outdoor workers and those without air conditioning.

Meteorologists note that climate change and a developing El Niño are amplifying the event. The ridge is also extending into the Canadian Prairies, threatening all‑time temperature and humidex records there.