A historic heat dome has reached its peak across the western U.S., placing roughly 40 million people under severe weather alerts. The National Weather Service (NWS) warned of "exceptionally rare" heat, with temperatures climbing to record-breaking highs in multiple states. Salt Lake City hit 109°F on Sunday, surpassing its previous all-time high set in 1874. Montana also recorded unofficially broken all-time highs in Billings, Livingston, Miles City, Baker, and Sheridan, WY. The NWS forecasted temperatures could rise to 112°F in some areas, with little overnight relief.
Meanwhile, flash flooding threatened parts of the Midwest and South, with flood watches in effect for Nashville, Lexington, Kentucky, and Charleston, West Virginia. Slow-moving thunderstorms caused flash flooding in Huntington, WV, and surrounding areas. Severe thunderstorms also impacted the Carolinas and eastern Georgia, including Charlotte, Charleston, and Savannah. The severe weather followed catastrophic flooding in Missouri over the weekend, prompting hundreds of water rescues, including 160 teenagers at Camp Taum Sauk in Reynolds County. A woman, Faith Gregory, was found dead in Crawford County after being swept away by floodwaters.
The NWS warned of "long-duration extreme heat" and advised residents to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks, and limit outdoor activities. The heat dome is expected to linger through next weekend, with temperatures between 105°F and 115°F in some areas. The prolonged heat has raised concerns about heat-related illnesses, wildfire risks, and strain on infrastructure. Utah and Montana remain under extreme heat warnings, with forecasts indicating highs over 100°F through Wednesday.