Heat Dome Prompts Emergency Declarations in Three East Coast Cities

A heat dome is forecast to remain over much of the eastern United States for several days, according to NBC News reporting. New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. have each declared heat emergencies. The declarations come as temperatures are expected to reach levels that pose health risks to residents.

Officials in the affected cities are adjusting public events and services for the holiday weekend.

News reported that 173 million people are currently under extreme heat alerts. Wildfires are also burning in western states during the same period. Cities have begun modifying outdoor activities and cooling-center operations to address the elevated temperatures. The heat dome is described as life-threatening in the NBC News segment.

Local governments are revising plans for public gatherings and transportation services. The changes are intended to reduce exposure for residents and visitors during the extended period of high temperatures.