A significant portion of the United States is currently sweltering under widespread heat advisories, with approximately half the country experiencing elevated temperatures and humidity levels. As of Monday, July 28, 2025, over 198 million Americans are affected by these alerts, according to the National Weather Service.
Widespread Heat Advisories Impacting Millions
The extreme heat is particularly concentrated across the Midwest, Southeast, and sections of the Northeast. These advisories, warning of dangerous conditions, are expected to persist through Wednesday night in several of these regions. The oppressive heat wave has already led to record-breaking temperatures in some areas. Tampa, Florida, for instance, recorded a new high of 100 degrees Fahrenheit on Sunday, underscoring the intensity of the current weather pattern.
Forecasts for Monday predict daytime temperatures in the high 90s, with “feels-like” temperatures projected to exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit in numerous cities. This sustained period of extreme heat raises significant concerns about heat-related illnesses, prompting public health officials to issue strong recommendations for residents.
Health and Safety Precautions Advised
Meteorologists are urging the public to take proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with the extreme temperatures. Key advice includes ensuring increased water intake throughout the day and seeking refuge in air-conditioned environments whenever possible. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, young children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, are especially at risk and should exercise extreme caution.
Public health departments are also encouraging communities to check on neighbors and family members who may be more susceptible to the heat. Cooling centers are being opened in many municipalities to provide temporary relief for those without adequate access to air conditioning.
Severe Storms Threaten Northern Midwest
While much of the nation grapples with record-breaking heat, a starkly different weather threat looms over several northern Midwest states. These areas are facing the potential for severe storms, including the possibility of a derecho. A derecho is characterized by a widespread, long-lived, straight-line windstorm associated with a fast-moving band of severe thunderstorms.
The Storm Prediction Center has issued alerts for eastern South Dakota, southern Minnesota, and northern Iowa, forecasting hazardous weather conditions. Residents in these regions can expect severe thunderstorms producing damaging wind gusts that could exceed 75 mph. The threat also includes the potential for tornadoes and significant hail, adding another layer of danger to the current weather outlook.
Officials are advising individuals in the path of these predicted storms to stay informed about weather updates, secure outdoor objects, and have a plan in place for potential power outages. The combination of extreme heat in one part of the country and severe storm potential in another highlights the volatile and diverse weather patterns currently affecting the United States.
