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July 24, 2025: Millions across the South and parts of the Midwest are bracing for a week of dangerous temperatures as the National Weather Service (NWS) issues widespread extreme heat warnings, watches, and heat advisory. A “heat dome” is expected to settle over vast swathes of the U.S., significantly increasing temperatures and humidity levels through the rest of the week, with the sweltering air projected to reach the Northeast by Thursday.
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Alert Levels and Affected Regions
An “Extreme Heat Watch” — signaling the possibility of dangerous heat — was issued for Illinois, Louisiana, Wisconsin, and Iowa, in effect through Thursday. Meanwhile, “Extreme Heat Warnings” — indicating dangerous heat is imminent or occurring — were sent to areas in Missouri, Kentucky, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Tennessee on Monday, with Mississippi added on Tuesday morning.
The NWS issues these warnings when “extremely dangerous heat conditions are expected or occurring,” with heat index values (what it feels like when factoring in temperature and humidity) nearing or surpassing a blistering 110 degrees Fahrenheit in affected areas. Less severe heat advisories stretch across parts of South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Indiana, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Michigan, where heat index values are also expected to hit triple digits.
Widespread Impact and Record Temperatures
AccuWeather predicts that nearly 200 million people will experience triple-digit “RealFeel” temperatures on July 25 alone, with over 70 million Americans under extreme heat warnings. AccuWeather meteorologist Kai Kerkow noted that cities like Wichita Falls, Dallas, and Kansas City are expected to reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit for the first time this season. Temperatures in major Northeast cities, including New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., are also forecast to climb into the mid-90s, with New York potentially nearing its 1999 record of 97 degrees on Friday.
The NWS Weather Prediction Centre stated on X (formerly Twitter) that over 90 million people are currently under heat alerts, including heat advisories, with the heat expected to persist longest over the Mid-Mississippi Valley and Mid-South regions.
Stay Safe During Prolonged Heat
Prolonged extreme heat, like that expected under this heat dome, poses significant risks, especially for individuals without access to air conditioning or those who spend extended periods outdoors. Residents in impacted areas are advised to stay indoors and cool for as long as possible.
It’s crucial to understand and look out for symptoms of heat-related illness, which include heavy sweating, fatigue, dizziness, muscle cramps, nausea, and headaches. If these symptoms occur, move to a cool area to rest and hydrate. The NWS alerts also caution: “Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.”