Eastern U.S. braces for heat wave as temperatures soar across region

Why it matters locally: West Virginia, located within the eastern United States, will experience the elevated temperatures and humidity of this heat wave, impacting public health and safety protocols across the state.

Meteorologists are forecasting a heat wave with elevated humidity levels across much of the eastern United States this week, following already dangerous conditions in the Southwest. On Sunday, Phoenix, central Texas, and other parts of the Southwest recorded temperatures near 100 degrees, according to weather data. The combination of heat and humidity expected to move east will intensify conditions for millions of residents. Meteorology officials have cautioned the public about the arrival of the high-pressure system that will drive temperatures upward across the region. The forecast calls for the heat wave to persist through the week, affecting communities from the upper Midwest through the Atlantic Coast. Meteorologers typically recommend residents limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable populations during such events. Heat waves pose particular risk to older adults, people with chronic medical conditions, and outdoor workers.