Heat dome brings dangerous temperatures across US

A massive heatwave is tightening its grip across the United States, with nearly 70 million people facing excessive heat warnings as temperatures soar across southern, central, and midwestern states.

Meteorologists say a powerful heat dome is trapping hot air over large parts of the country, preventing temperatures from dropping and extending the heat into next week. It is the third major heat dome to hit the US in the past month.

Much of the region is forecast to see highs of 95°F to 105°F, with parts of the southwestern desert nearing 120°F.

Extreme heat warnings are in effect in several areas, including western Nebraska, where highs could hit 108°F. Denver may also challenge longstanding records.

The prolonged extreme weather is raising serious health concerns; nights are expected to remain unusually warm, offering little relief. Older adults, children, pregnant women and people with existing medical conditions face the highest risk.

Forecasters also warn that the weather pattern could spark severe thunderstorms, flash floods and large hail across parts of the Great Lakes region.