The eastern two-thirds of the U. S. are bracing for a scorching heat wave that will last into late June. This intense heat will not only break temperature records but also trigger severe thunderstorms along its edges. The storms will be most active in the Plains and Upper Midwest, but they might also affect parts of the Northeast, creating what meteorologists call a "ring of fire. " These storms will be powerful due to the clash of hot and cool air, and the atmospheric energy will make them particularly intense.

    The storms are expected to move quickly, bringing heavy rain, lightning, hail, and strong winds. Late Friday, severe thunderstorms caused significant damage in the Dakotas and northern Minnesota, with wind gusts exceeding 100 mph. These storms continued into the weekend, affecting the Great Lakes and Southern Canada, and posed threats of damaging winds, flooding, and hail. As the storms move southeastward, they will bring much-needed rain to drought-stricken areas, but the intense downpours could lead to flooding.

    The heat dome will cover a vast area, from western Texas to northern Minnesota, putting millions at risk of destructive storms. These storms will be fueled by the heat and produce frequent lightning, which could cause power outages and damage. While the central Plains through the mid-Atlantic and Northeast will experience dry, sweltering conditions, a few isolated thunderstorms are possible. The threat of severe weather will return to the Midwest and Northeast as the week progresses, with the potential for long-lived, damaging wind events called derechos.

    The storms could bring strong winds, hail, and heavy downpours, leading to flash flooding and agricultural impacts. Several inches of rain are possible in a short amount of time, affecting the Corn Belt, upper Midwest, and northern Great Lakes region. The progression of these storms farther east is uncertain and depends on various factors, but the risk of gusty storms will increase for the eastern Great Lakes, upper Ohio Valley, and Northeast during the midweek period.

    The heat wave and associated storms highlight the need for preparedness and awareness. As climate patterns change, understanding and adapting to these weather events becomes crucial. Communities should stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during these intense weather conditions.

Storms to Follow the Heat Wave

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