In the midst of early summer, a powerful heat wave has engulfed the central and eastern regions of the United States, with scorching temperatures and high humidity reaching from Chicago all the way to Boston. This relentless heat wave, caused by a "heat dome" settling over the eastern half of the country, has shattered records and led to power emergencies.

Chicago experienced a historic high of 97 degrees on June 17, breaking a daily record that had stood since 1887, according to the Chicago Tribune. The intense heat swiftly spread eastward the following day, impacting areas in the Midwest, Ohio Valley, Mid-Atlantic, and New England regions. This is not the first heat dome the U.S. has encountered this year, as similar weather patterns have previously affected the southern plains and desert southwest.

A heat dome is created when a persistent ridge of high pressure settles over an area for an extended period, trapping heat and causing temperatures to soar to unprecedented levels. The atmospheric pressure compresses the air, creating a dome-like bulge that can span across several states. The current heat dome has now expanded into New England, prompting the region's power grid operator, ISO New England Inc., to declare a "Level 1" emergency due to the surging demand for power amidst the oppressive heat and humidity.

Heat domes often lead to heat waves, which are defined by the National Weather Service as a period of abnormally hot weather lasting more than two days. Such heat waves can bring about a range of heat-related illnesses, and unfortunately, heat is the leading weather-related cause of death in the United States. Last year alone, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recorded 2,300 heat-related deaths, the highest number in 45 years. However, some scientists believe that these figures may actually be an undercount. A recent study conducted by Texas A&M University estimated that there were nearly 11,000 heat-related deaths in 2023.

These heat waves are an alarming consequence of climate change, as heat-trapping gases accumulate in the atmosphere, causing more frequent and intense periods of extreme heat. In addition to straining our health, heat waves also place tremendous pressure on power grids. However, there are steps we can take to mitigate these effects. Weatherizing our homes and utilizing energy-efficient LED lightbulbs, which emit less heat than traditional incandescent bulbs, can help reduce carbon pollution and combat rising temperatures.

As the world continues to warm, it is crucial that we take immediate action to address the impacts of climate change. By making environmentally-conscious choices in our daily lives, such as subscribing to energy-saving practices and adopting sustainable habits, we can contribute to both our own well-being and the health of the planet. Stay informed about climate-related news and receive helpful tips by joining our free newsletter. Together, we can make a difference in cooling our planet and creating a safer, more sustainable future.