Record-high temperatures from heat dome affect millions
More than 100 million Americans are under some form of heat warning or advisory as a withering, potentially record-breaking heat wave intensified across the central and eastern USA.
This cauldron of misery has been exacerbated by a sprawling heat dome that has wandered around the West this summer, sending temperatures skyrocketing.
A heat dome is the result of a strong change in ocean temperatures from west to east in the tropical Pacific Ocean during the preceding winter, according to the National Ocean Service.
What is a heat dome?
The warm air coming from the west part of the Pacific Ocean gets trapped in the jet stream as it approaches land.
When that hot air arrives over land, the atmosphere traps it. Winds can move the heat dome around, so it is also referred to as a heat wave.
Nearly 92 million people in the U.S. were affected by drought in June 2020. More than 92% of the region remains in drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
For tips on how to stay cool in the heat, visit USATODAY.com