MADISON, Wisconsin: Tens of millions of residents across the Midwest and East Coast faced dangerously high temperatures over the weekend as a significant heat wave continued to sweep through much of the United States.

This weather pattern, characterized by extreme heat, was expected to persist well into the coming week, with warnings and advisories being issued across various states.

The National Weather Service reported that nearly the entire northeastern region, from Minnesota to Maine, was under some form of heat advisory, affecting states like Arkansas, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

Meteorologists attributed the record-breaking temperatures to a phenomenon known as a heat dome. This occurs when a large area of high pressure in the upper atmosphere traps heat and humidity close to the ground, resulting in oppressive weather conditions.

Throughout the region, local weather service offices urged residents to plan accordingly, advising them to take frequent breaks if they had to be outdoors, stay hydrated, and ensure that pets had access to water and shade.

Thunderstorm in New York

Adding to the weekend's turmoil, severe thunderstorms rocked parts of New York, leading to tragic outcomes. On June 22, three people, including twin six-year-old girls, lost their lives when a storm brought down trees onto homes in the central part of the state.

In the aftermath, the Oneida County Sheriff's Office confirmed that several inches of rain fell in just a few hours, inundating areas like Kirkland and leaving many without power. New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in 32 counties due to the severe storms and ongoing heat crisis.

By June 22, heat advisories had been in effect for days, with temperatures reaching staggering highs. In cities like Chicago, the heat index soared to 103°F (39.4°C), and Madison, Wisconsin, reported highs of 101°F (38.3°C).

Many residents sought refuge indoors, with some remarks highlighting the challenges of outdoor activities. Lynn Watkins, director of a local day care, expressed her struggle, saying it was simply too hot to enjoy grilling outdoors.

In Pittsburgh, the heat index hit 105°F, prompting local health officials to declare a heat emergency for the area. They encouraged citizens to take advantage of air-conditioned public spaces while providing access to a hotline staffed by medical professionals to address heat-related illnesses.

As the oppressive heat continued, beachgoers flocked to Rehoboth Beach in Delaware, where temperatures hovered in the mid-80s. Expecting sustained heat, residents prepared for increasingly challenging conditions.

Fans at the PGA Travelers Championship in Cromwell, Connecticut, were seen seeking shelter from the heat, showcasing the struggle to remain comfortable during one of the hottest stretches of weather in recent memory.

As the week progresses, forecasters warned that the extreme temperatures would shift further east, with cities like New York and Boston anticipating highs around 95°F and 100°F, respectively. The heat wave, culminating in significant discomfort for millions, serves as a stark reminder of the impact of extreme weather conditions.

Mark Gehring, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Sullivan, Wisconsin, said such heat is typical for U.S. summers, though it usually peaks in mid-July or early August. What makes this heat wave unusual, he noted, is the vast area it's affecting.

"It's basically everywhere east of the Rockies," he said, referring to the Rocky Mountains. "That is unusual, to have this massive area of high dewpoints and heat."