Scorching heatwave set to sear northeastern US, break records and spark health concerns

Over the next week, more than 260 million people will have to cope with extremely high temperatures as the first major heatwave of the summer is predicted to break records in the northeastern United States.

"The duration of this heatwave is notable and potentially the longest experienced in decades for some locations," said the National Weather Service (NWS).

A heat dome is expected to sweep eastward from the Great Lakes towards New England, bringing temperatures as high as 41°C (105°F).

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Overnight temperatures are forecast to stay in the mid-20s°C (70s°F), offering little relief.

Heat domes form when atmospheric systems with high pressure linger over a particular region for prolonged periods, trapping warm air underneath them.

The NWS predicts an unusually early heat trap in the coming days, which may last long enough to result in droughts in certain areas.

"The early arrival of this magnitude of heat, the duration, abundant sunshine, and lack of relief overnight will increase the danger of this heatwave beyond what the exact temperature values would suggest," continued the NWS.

Areas at extreme risk include New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Michigan.

Serious health problems may arise for anyone without access to cooling or hydration in these areas.

Due to the heat island effect caused by the use of heat-retaining materials in the construction of roads and other infrastructure, as well as a lack of cooling vegetation, urban areas are particularly vulnerable to heat extremes.

Experts recommend staying indoors if possible. Drinking plenty of water and resting periodically is strongly advised for people who must go out, as well as vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women.

According to Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association safety director Greg Brooks, "People who are experiencing heat exhaustion generally aren't going to recognize it as heat exhaustion because they get tunnel vision," as reported by The Associated Press.

As heatwaves like this one occur more frequently due to human-induced climate change, the number of heat-related deaths in the US is increasing. Extreme heat events are also becoming more intense and prolonged, increasing the risk of fire.

(With inputs from agencies)