The Midwest and East Coast are facing a potentially deadly weather week as forecasters warn of severe thunderstorms and an unrelenting “heat dome.” Multiple rounds of thunderstorms are expected to bring risks of flash flooding across the region, while the heat dome could push temperatures into the triple digits in several states.
Flash Flood Threat Looms Large
Areas already saturated from recent heavy thunderstorms are particularly vulnerable to flash flooding. AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski expressed serious concern about the risk of life-threatening flash flooding in a zone stretching from southern Illinois and Indiana to central and eastern Kentucky, central and southern West Virginia, and southwestern Virginia.
The National Weather Service has issued extreme heat warnings or advisories for over 50 million Americans from Texas to Missouri. Thunderstorms at night could bring hail downpours and wind gusts reaching 85 miles per hour from southern Nebraska to Canada.
Heat Dome to Linger for Weeks?
AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Chad Merrill warns that a bulge in the jet stream could create a persistent heat dome, potentially lasting well into August. Cities like Kansas City, Missouri, which haven't seen 100-degree temperatures in two years, could reach that mark multiple times this week. Dallas may experience its first 100-degree day of 2025.
"This has the look of a long-lasting heat wave with limited rainfall," Merrill said. "Drought will expand through the central Plains by mid-August and worsen in Kansas and Nebraska, where there are already pockets of moderate to extreme drought."
Safety Precautions Advised
- Stay informed about weather alerts and warnings in your area.
- Avoid driving or walking through flooded areas.
- Seek shelter indoors during thunderstorms.
- Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities during periods of extreme heat.
The coming week poses significant weather-related risks. Staying informed and taking necessary precautions is crucial for ensuring safety.