Plains and Midwest Face a Summer-Long Battle With Heat and Drought

The Plains and Midwest are going to sizzle as the second week of July kicks off, thanks to yet another heat dome spreading over much of the U.S. Here is a look at how hot you can expect it to get in the days ahead, as well as how long the heat will stick around.

Long-lasting Heat Dome Anchored Over the Central U.S.

The nation's heartland may see new highs for the year early this week as the heat dome that has been impacting the interior West and northern Plains expands its reach. In addition to experiencing the toastiest weather of the year thus far, several cities may also set new daily high records. This is notable as this time of the year is historically one of the warmest.

For instance, Minneapolis has topped out at a high of 92 degrees this year. But the Twin Cities are forecast to see the mercury soar into the upper 90s on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Temperatures back in the 80s are not in the forecast until later next weekend.

Forecasters are growing more concerned that the heat dome building over the north-central U.S. will reorganize and intensify as the month of July progresses. The refusal of this heat dome to break down could result in a lengthy stretch of days with readings in the triple digits for cities such as Denver, Des Moines, Omaha, Kansas City, and St. Louis. Chicago is also likely to be under the threat of several days in the 90s, with the lakeshore breezes only providing periodic relief.

Thunderstorms could ignite along the periphery of the heat dome at times, helping to briefly cool things off. However, little to no precipitation is expected to form within the core of the zone of high pressure.

The lack of moisture could amplify the threat of crop stress in a part of the country that leans on agriculture as a major industry. This threat will be the highest in areas that are already dealing with drought conditions.

The prolonged nature of this heat wave will also raise the risk of heat-related illnesses. Individuals who are vulnerable to the impacts of extreme heat will want to exercise caution in the days ahead.

Weather changes fast, so help your community stay prepared. Share this story with friends, family, or your group chat, and keep your forecast in the now with Weather Forecast Now.