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yesterday

Heat Dome Drives Dangerous Warnings for 200 Million Across Midwest and East Coast

Cities are opening cooling centers in response to a semi-stationary heat dome that will push daytime temperatures into the mid-90s with heat indices above 100°F.

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Willis Tower in downtown Chicago is seen in the distance as two women laugh while strolling through Humboldt Park on June 19, 2025. Temperatures are forecasted to reach into the 90s this weekend and into next week. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
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Overview

  • Extreme Heat Warnings went into effect June 20 for Cook County and extend through early next week across the Ohio Valley and Northeast.
  • A high-pressure heat dome will sustain daytime highs in the mid-to-upper 90s and nighttime lows near 75°F, with humidity driving heat indices above 100°F for several days.
  • Forecasts indicate more than 200 million people will experience daytime temperatures above 90°F, including over 35 million exposed to 100°F or higher.
  • Chicago authorities have opened cooling centers at parks, libraries and community centers and plan public-health briefings to address the heightened heat-related illness risk.
  • Scattered storms may dampen heat temporarily in parts of the Midwest and New England today, but the heat dome is forecast to strengthen this weekend.