Midwest Heat Wave Puts Millions Under Extreme Heat Warning
A record-setting heat wave has entered several states in the U.S., according to NBC News. Last Friday, a heat dome, which forms when the atmosphere traps hot air over a large area, formed in the central United States and expanded to the Midwest and the Northwest throughout the next week.
Over the entire country, 64 million people were placed under an extreme heat warning. The National Weather Service reported that the heat index had hit all-time highs of 101 degrees in Des Moines and 104 degrees in Chicago and Sioux Falls. In St. Louis and Minneapolis, the heat index was 105 degrees. Forecasters in Omaha said the heat index last weekend would feel like 100 to 110 degrees in the shade.
The heat wave has caused thousands to cancel their summer outdoor plans. Pool parties were called off, barbecues were abandoned, and amusement park visits were canceled. Dick Kraklow rolled into Minneapolis early last week with three generations of family and several vintage cars, hoping to participate in the yearly gathering of the Minnesota Street Rod. However, on Saturday morning, the family was packing up to go back to Wisconsin instead of displaying their vehicles.
“We love the show,” Mr. Kraklow, 42, said. But as most of the members of the family were in their late 70s, in the end, he said, “It’s too hot.” However, there were some who enjoyed the heat. For example, Duane Huey, 72, said, “I love the heat. As I’ve gotten older, the cold gets to me more.” In Chicago, Moe Nuhman, a 39-year-old jewelry trader who was seen taking a three-mile walk, said, “This is Chicago. It gets hot. I love it. When you walk, you live longer.”
As the heat wave continues to grip the Midwest and other parts of the country, millions are being forced to adapt their routines and make difficult choices for the sake of safety. With health risks rising, communities are being urged to stay cool, stay hydrated, and look out for one another until the heat breaks.
Sources:
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/record-setting-heat-wave-headed-central-midwest-eastern-us-rcna214064
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/21/us/heat-wave-midwest-central-us.html
