A dangerous heatwave is set to engulf large parts of the central and eastern United States from Tuesday through the July 4 holiday weekend. Forecasters have warned of extreme temperatures and oppressive humidity during the country’s 250th Independence Day celebrations and the FIFA World Cup knockout stage.The National Weather Service said temperatures are expected to climb above 100°F (38°C), while high humidity could push the heat index significantly higher, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.The National Weather Service also warned that overnight temperatures will offer little relief, with lows expected to remain in the mid-to-upper 70s across many areas.The combination of persistent daytime heat and warm nights is expected to heighten the risk of heat-related illnesses, particularly among vulnerable groups, the agency said.“Drink water often. Limit time outside in the afternoon. Check on neighbors,” the public alert system in the US capital, Washington, advised as authorities urged residents to take precautions against the extreme heat.Parts of the United States, particularly Phoenix, central Texas and much of the Southwest, were already experiencing temperatures of around 100°F (38°C) on Sunday. NWS also warned of severe wildfire conditions across large parts of the West as fresh wildfires broke out in the region, as cited by The Guardian.More than 130 million people across the southern and Great Plains states were under moderate to severe heat risk on Sunday, according to NWS forecasts. The affected area is expected to expand, with temperatures likely to intensify as the week progresses.The heatwave comes as the United States prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of its independence from Britain, with Washington, DC, set to host what organisers have described as the largest fireworks display in the nation’s history.The extreme weather also coincides with the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup, with several matches scheduled to be played in sweltering conditions.
