A Historic Heat Dome is Creeping Across the U.S. Here’s How to Prepare

An intense heatwave broke heat records in 14 states, including Arizona and California, with temperatures reaching 112 degrees Fahrenheit in some areas. And now it’s creeping east, according to National Weather Service.

The heat wave continues its journey across the U.S. Midwest, and is expected to affect a quarter to a third of the 48 mainland states, said Greg Gallina, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. Associated Press. Highest temperatures recorded today Arizona, New Mexico and Texas – What the National Weather Service refers to as the Southern Rockies region. But hot air is moving.

The reason these temperatures remain high is the “heat dome” phenomenon, where high pressure prevents hot air from rising, trapping it in a bubble above an area. As the pressure dome moves, the hot air also moves, and is now moving eastward.

The states that will be suffocated by the heat dome in the coming days include the southern and central plains regions. That means residents of Texas, Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska can expect to sweat as the heat blankets them on its eastward journey.

What a heat dome means for climate change and our health

according to Central climateThe United States has seen rising rates of power outages over the past 20 years, largely due to weather-related issues and an aging power grid.

As of August 2025,… US Environmental Protection Agency States that heat is the leading cause of weather-related death in the United States. the Global Health Organization Reports indicate that between 2000 and 2019, approximately 489,000 heat-related deaths occurred each year.

Fortunately, humidity levels are not high during the summer heatwave. like Humidity can contribute to dehydrationBody fatigue, breathing difficulties, and low humidity make this heat dome somewhat less dangerous for workers in affected areas.

Global Weather Attribution, an initiative formed by international climate change researchers and climatologists, I decided to do a heat dome It would be “practically impossible without human-induced climate change.”

In a world where such weather events are no longer impossible, you will need to properly prepare for future heat waves. Here’s how to stay safe during a heat dome.

How to prepare for a heat dome before it arrives in your state

There’s nothing you can do to beat the heat outside, except follow through Thermal safety best practices. All you have to do is stay hydrated, wear light-colored, breathable clothing, and wait out the potentially dangerous heat dome, which is expected to dissipate by the end of next week when April begins. But you can do things to close the floodgates before extreme heat reaches your home.

Even if you don’t have a lot of time to prepare, a A pair of small items It can make your home safer (and more comfortable). Cooling towels and portable fans Countertop ice makers A must-have during a heatwave, especially if you’re not looking to turn down the thermostat and spend a pretty penny.

Heatwaves are also very expensive due to the huge amount of energy used – staying cool is very expensive. Depending on your living situation, you may want to invest in it Heat pump installation. These HVAC system add-ons are Extremely energy efficientWhich means you can keep more money in your pocket while you beat the heat.

During the middle of a heat wave, when everyone’s air conditioner is on, there’s also the possibility of an early power outage (a temporary drop in voltage, causing the lights to dim) or even a blackout (a complete loss of power). It’s common to feel helpless during a power outage, but you can get ahead of the curve by making a plan Summer blackout kit With portable chargers and alternative light sources before the heatwave hits.

Even if a historic heat wave doesn’t hit your home, these tips will help you prepare as the U.S. summer season approaches in a couple of months.