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A Scorching Heat Dome Is Coming: Here’s What You Need to Know

An intense heat wave is set to hit the eastern half of the United States, bringing dangerously high temperatures that could shatter records and pose serious health risks. Starting late this week, the heat will peak next week, affecting a large area for an extended period. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming heat dome and how to stay cool in Columbus.

What Is a Heat Dome?

A heat dome is a strong zone of high pressure that traps heat in a region, leading to soaring temperatures and often oppressive humidity. This particular heat dome originated over northern Mexico and the southwestern United States, where it has already caused record high temperatures. Forecasts indicate that it will shift eastward this weekend, becoming centered over the southeast and eventually drifting northward toward the Mid-Atlantic, while strengthening and expanding.

heat dome in great lakes region

According to some models, this heat dome could reach historic levels of intensity for this time of year. It’s already been one of the warmest years on record in the East due to an unusually mild winter and spring, and now the extreme heat that dominated the West is making its way to our region.

What to Expect in Columbus

By Monday, Columbus and the rest of the Ohio Valley will experience the full force of the heat dome. Temperatures are expected to reach the mid-90s to around 100 degrees, which is 10 to 20 degrees above normal. The combination of heat and humidity will create punishing conditions that could last through much of next week.

The National Weather Service’s new HeatRisk map rates the upcoming temperatures at Levels 3 and 4, indicating “major” to “extreme” heat risks. This means that the heat will pose a significant threat, especially to vulnerable populations such as outdoor workers, the homeless, older adults, and anyone without access to air conditioning.

The combination of heat and humidity will result in heat indices ranging between 100 and 105 degrees Monday through Wednesday.

Staying Cool in Columbus

With such intense heat on the horizon, it’s crucial to take steps to stay cool and safe. Here are some tips:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as they can dehydrate you.

Stay Indoors: Whenever possible, stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you don’t have air conditioning, consider spending time in public places like libraries, shopping malls, or community centers.

Use Fans and Air Conditioning: If you have air conditioning, use it to keep your home cool. Fans can also help, but during extremely high temperatures, they may not be enough on their own.

Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to help keep your body cool.

Take Cool Showers: Taking cool showers or baths can help lower your body temperature.

Avoid Strenuous Activity: Reduce or reschedule strenuous activities, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Make sure to check on neighbors, family members, and friends who are more vulnerable to the heat.

Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness: Be aware of symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, such as heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Seek medical attention if you or someone you know exhibits these symptoms.

This heat wave is set to be one for the record books, so it’s essential to prepare and take the necessary precautions. Stay safe, Columbus, and remember to keep cool as the heat dome takes hold.