Summer is here, and the heat is on. 

The reason some regions are dealing with scorching temperatures and hot weather is because of a heat dome. 

A heat dome happens when heat gets trapped under a dome of high pressure.

This occurs when the jet stream is funneling fast winds high into the atmosphere from west to east.

Sinking air compresses and then the air heats up, creating a heat dome. The air cannot escape, meaning that temperatures will keep warming up.

High pressure circulation in the atmosphere acts like a dome or cap, trapping heat at the surface and favoring the formation of a heat wave. (NOAA)

Heat domes can push temperatures to dangerous levels.

They can stretch over states and be unrelenting for days and even weeks, bringing intense heat in the 90s and triple digits.

During heat dome conditions, it’s important to keep yourself cool and hydrated by staying indoors or attending a cooling center.

Also, conserve your energy using your appliances too.

According to the National Weather Service, heat is the number one weather killer. So it’s important to know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat strokes and stay safe this summer.

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