A record-threatening heat wave has arrived
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.

Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios
Bring a water bottle and sunscreen if you're going outside this week — it's absolutely sweltering out there.
Why it matters: Extreme heat is the country's top weather-related killer.
- This is the country's first heat wave of the season, which carries heightened health risks, since people are not yet accustomed to the high temperatures.
Threat level: Columbus only recorded seven days with temperatures of 90 degrees or higher all last summer.
- This week, it's supposed to be that hot every day. An excessive heat watch is in effect from noon Monday until 8pm Friday.
Zoom in: Each day's forecast will flirt with setting a daily high temperature record.
- Today's projected high for Columbus is 95, just under the record set on June 17, 1994. Add humidity and it could feel as hot as 101.
Flashback: This time two years ago, a high-wind storm followed by a heat wave with similar temperatures strained local power grids, knocking out electricity for thousands of Central Ohioans for several days.
- There aren't any major storms in the immediate forecast, but unfortunately, that also means things likely won't cool down soon.
The big picture: A large area of high pressure, also known as a heat dome, has been building over much of the central and eastern half of the country.
- The Climate Prediction Center thinks the heat threat is likely to continue throughout June.
What's next: The latest summer projections suggest the continental U.S. could challenge the record for its hottest summer to date, with a 40-50% likelihood that Ohio will experience abnormally hot temperatures.
Pro tips: If you must go outside, stay hydrated and wear loose clothing and sunscreen.
- Learn the signs of heat-related illnesses and seek help right away if you or someone you know is experiencing them.
- Check on neighbors and loved ones, especially older adults and those with chronic health conditions, who are more vulnerable in hot weather.
Lastly, turn up your air conditioning a few degrees so it doesn't overwork — saving you money on your electricity bill, and potentially saving us all the inconvenience of another blackout.

