BISMARCK — North Dakota is bracing for a dangerous heat wave as a strong high-pressure dome moves over the central United States, forecasters say. Temperatures are expected to climb well above normal — by about 15 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit in many places — and parts of the state may see sustained triple-digit readings into the early portion of next week.
What the forecast means locally
The National Weather Service and private forecasters warn the heat will be broad and persistent. In Bismarck, the National Weather Service office projects temperatures will surpass 100 F and remain that hot through Tuesday. That spike represents a sharp departure from typical North Dakota summers, which more commonly feature daytime highs in the 80s.
“The heat doesn’t necessarily stop when it’s dark out,” said Josh Adam, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Bismarck, noting that warm overnight lows limit the body’s ability to recover between hot days.
Forecasters also said the dome is expected to affect as much as two-thirds of the continental United States. That wide reach raises concerns for residents who lack reliable cooling or who work outdoors.
Records and public-health concerns
Meteorologists predict more than 90 local temperature records will be tied or broken, and roughly two-thirds of those are expected to be overnight heat records. Forecasters singled out several cities where overnight temperatures may not drop below 80 F, including:
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Miami
- Tampa, Florida
- Galveston, Texas
- Charleston, South Carolina
Chad Merrill, a senior meteorologist with AccuWeather, characterized the current heat dome as one of the most intense to affect the Dakotas in about 25 years, underscoring both the breadth and strength of the event.
Where triple-digit highs are expected
Forecasts call for record triple-digit highs this weekend stretching across parts of the Mountain West and Great Plains, including:
| States |
|---|
| Nevada |
| Utah |
| Colorado |
| Wyoming |
| Idaho |
| Montana |
| North Dakota |
| South Dakota |
What residents should consider
Health officials and meteorologists advise people to stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned locations when possible and check on neighbors and relatives who may be vulnerable to heat-related illness. The forecasted combination of high daytime temperatures and elevated overnight lows can increase risks for people without consistent cooling options.
Local cooling centers, clinic schedules and other community resources may be announced by county or city governments as the event unfolds. Residents should follow updates from the National Weather Service and local health departments for watches, warnings and guidance tailored to their area.
The heat dome is expected to persist for several days as the high-pressure ridge limits cooling winds and blocks precipitation. Forecasters emphasize taking precautions now to reduce the chances of heat-related medical emergencies.
