Over 80 Million Americans Face Dangerous Heat Wave Across the U.S.
By USA NEWS TODAY| July 27, 2025 | 5 min read
A major heat wave continues to scorch large portions of the United States this weekend, putting over 80 million Americans under extreme heat alerts. From the Southeast to the Midwest, "feels-like" temperatures are pushing well into the triple digits — and forecasters warn it’s only going to intensify.
đĨ Brutal Heat from Missouri to the Carolinas
St. Louis, Missouri, which has already endured a week of sweltering temperatures, remains under an Extreme Heat Warning. Residents there could experience heat index values up to 114°F this weekend.
The Carolinas are getting hit just as hard. Cities like Myrtle Beach, Wilmington, and Raleigh are under warnings as well, with feels-like temperatures expected to climb between 113°F and 115°F through Sunday.
⚠️ Heat Advisories Stretch Across 20+ States
The heat dome is wide-reaching. Heat advisories are in effect across a massive stretch of the country—from Florida to Virginia (including Tampa, Savannah, and Richmond), Texas to West Virginia (including Dallas, Memphis, Oklahoma City, Charleston, and Cincinnati), and even parts of the Upper Midwest, including Pierre, Bismarck, and Duluth.
While the Northeast gets some relief from a cold front—with cooler, drier air settling in this weekend—the rest of the country is in for a dangerously hot ride.
𨠓Extreme Heat Risk” Hits Highest Level
According to the National Weather Service, a widespread life-threatening heat wave is expected to settle over much of the Midwest and Southeast for the coming week. Cities like Omaha, Des Moines, Minneapolis, Sioux Falls, and Duluth are under Extreme Heat Watches, with heat index readings projected to soar past 100°F on Sunday.
A Level 4 "Extreme Heat Risk"—the highest possible on the scale—is in effect from Sunday through Thursday across parts of the Southeast. This level is reserved for rare and long-duration extreme heat with no overnight relief, a dangerous scenario that can overwhelm people without access to cooling and strain healthcare systems, power grids, and public infrastructure.
đŦ️ Wildfire Risks Grow Out West
On top of the heat, the western U.S. is facing increased wildfire danger. Red Flag Warnings are up for parts of Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming, where dry air and strong winds could fuel new and existing fires.
One fire in particular—the Deer Creek Fire—has already burned over 17,000 acres. As of Saturday morning, it’s 77% contained, but officials warn that conditions could quickly worsen with the weather shift.
đĄ Stay Safe in the Heat
If you're in an affected area, stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity, and check on elderly neighbors and loved ones. Cooling centers are open in many cities. Avoid strenuous activities during peak afternoon hours and never leave kids or pets in parked vehicles, even for a few minutes.
More updates will follow as this dangerous heat wave continues to unfold. Stay tuned to your local weather reports and follow emergency guidance.
#HeatWave2025 #ExtremeHeat #WeatherAlert #StayCoolAmerica #MidwestHeat #SoutheastHeat #WildfireAlert
