Heatwave in the US: Hottest states, record temperatures, and safety tips you need now

Summer is here and so is the season of heatwaves that are scorching hot and make you dread stepping out of the house. Tens of millions of people across the Midwest and East braced the sweltering heat of the sun as a rare June heatwave continued to heat parts of the states.Most of the northeastern quadrant of the United States along with parts of Arkansas, Tennessee, Louisiana and Mississippi were under a heat advisory on Sunday. The heat index in Pittsburgh was expected to top 105F and the temperature in Columbus, Ohio was 77F. The public health department of Philadelphia declared a heat emergency starting at noon on Sunday and ending on Wednesday evening.Sunday marked the second straight day of extreme heat across the Midwest and East Coast.

Now, the heat is expected to persist in the coming week with the hottest temperatures staying eastward. On Monday and Tuesday, New York City is expected to see highs of 95F. While Boston will be facing a scorching 100F on Tuesday, Washington DC is expected to hit 100F on Tuesday and Wednesday. The heatwave according to the meteorologists is the result of a phenomenon called heat dome, where a large area of high pressure in the upper atmosphere traps heat and humidity, resulting in extreme temperatures.

While heatwaves are common, they mostly occur in July and August. Currently, what's worrying for meteorologists is the sheer amount of area the heatwave encompasses. “That is unusual, to have this massive area of high dewpoints and heat,” said Mark Gehring, a National Weather Service meteorologist in Sullivan to the Guardian.

How to stay safe during a heatwave?

During a heatwave, infants, children, pregnant women and the elderly are at a major risk.

The high temperatures can lead to dehydration among them and put their health at risk. According to UNICEF, it is important to follow certain safety measures during a heatwave.Firstly, it is vital to have an emergency kit by your side- at home and outside, that contains oral rehydration salt (ORD) packets, water bottles, towels, a handheld fan and any other medications you might need.At home, use air-conditioners to cool down the house. During a heatwave try not stepping out of the house during the hottest parts of the day, however, if you are going out, take the emergency kit, wear sunscreen, and use umbrellas or shades for protection.It is also important to stay hydrated, wear comfortable clothes and sit in cool places if feeling a bit dizzy or dehydrated.