A punishing heat wave continued across the central and southern United States for a second straight day, with at least 40 million people under extreme heat warnings. Large parts of the country remained locked in dangerous conditions as high temperatures and heavy humidity combined to raise the risk for heat-related illness.
Forecasters said heat index values above 105 degrees Fahrenheit were expected in a broad stretch of the US, including areas from Memphis to Montana and Las Vegas. That means conditions can feel even hotter than the actual air temperature, especially where moisture in the air makes it harder for the body to cool itself.
The widespread warnings highlight how much of the region is being affected at the same time. Central and southern states are facing a prolonged burst of intense summer weather rather than a short-lived spike, keeping pressure on residents dealing with repeated days of oppressive heat.
With extreme heat lingering, the main concern remains the danger posed by extended exposure during the hottest parts of the day. The latest outlook shows the heat wave still gripping a wide area, with severe temperatures and humidity continuing to shape conditions across much of the central and southern US.
