A Heat Dome Hits the U.S.

26 out of the 50 states in the U.S. experienced extremely hot temperatures during the latter part of July. Over 110 million Americans were affected by this condition with most of them from the central and eastern parts of the country. The highest temperature recorded in the U.S. for the month of July is 121 degrees Fahrenheit which is equivalent to almost 50 degrees Celsius. This temperature is even higher than the temperatures recorded in Middle Eastern countries during the same time frame. 

A weather phenomenon called “heat dome” is said to be the cause of such rise in temperature. Heat dome is defined by meteorologistsas the high pressure that is located in the upper atmosphere. This high pressure acts as a cover or a lid that prevents hot air from escaping. As a result, the hot air is forced back onto the ground which then makes people experience dangerously high temperatures. During a heat dome, temperatures can rise from 10 to 20 degrees more than average temperatures.

The heat dome in the U.S. today does not only cause temperatures to go really high, but it also lessens the quality of air that people breathe. Moreover, temperatures remain high even at night, so people are not given relief from the heat throughout the day. People may continue to sweat even at night and may not get good sleep. This may lead to exhaustion and dehydration. People can also suffer from heat strokes, respiratory issues, and blood circulation problems.

The heat dome is also destroying infrastructures like concrete roads that crumble or sink as a result. The weather phenomenon also contributed to the hastening of the spread of forest fires and the decrease of water supply in many different areas.

To deal with the heat dome, Americans came up with creative ways on how to cool down. Cooling rooms were created in central business areas in major cities, like New York and Washington, where the severe ozone pollution is worsening the effects of the heat dome. In other states, people are encouraged to use public transportation to lessen the heat that cars can produce. Free rides on air-conditioned buses are also offered to the public. The national government advised people to keep themselves hydrated, wear light clothing, and try to be vigilant about the possible effects of the heat dome, so that they can do necessary precautions.