Sweltering heat stifles a third of US population, severe storms leave thousands in the dark
- Excessive heat warnings, watches and advisories were issued for more than 100 million people as temperatures surged 10 to 20 degrees above normal
- Forecasters predict another heatwave next week across much of central and southern US with temperatures set to soar above 100 degrees
Dangerous, record-setting heat had nearly one-third of the US population in its grip on Tuesday – from the Upper Midwest to the Southeast – on the cusp of summer’s official arrival.
The National Weather Service issued excessive heat warnings, watches and heat advisories for more than 100 million people as temperatures were expected to surge 10 to 20 degrees above normal from the Plains, the Midwest and some areas along the East Coast, according to AccuWeather.
People living in Indiana – where temperatures in Indianapolis were forecast to hit a high of 98 degrees – have ramped up the air conditioning to get through the heat, prompting concerns of blackouts among energy suppliers.
Meanwhile, severe rain and storms in West Michigan and Ohio knocked out power late Monday into Tuesday In Ohio, leaving thousands without electricity. Now, much of Michigan has to contend with a heat index hovering near 105, according to the weather service.
It’s a similar case for Chicago, where a severe thunderstorm prompted tornado warnings and power outages Monday evening amid gusts close to 84mph. The city will next contend with sweltering heat approaching the triple digits.
The weather service predicts severe thunderstorms will hit parts of the Upper Midwest on Wednesday. Severe weather already left its mark on parts of the US this week, and more is on the way.