What is a heat dome? The US heatwave explained

According to Al Jazeera, a heat dome is a ridge of high pressure in the atmosphere that traps hot air in place, preventing normal weather patterns from cooling a region. The United States is currently experiencing a significant heat dome, with forecasters expecting record-breaking temperatures in the coming days—timing that comes just ahead of Fourth of July celebrations and international soccer matches being held across the country. Heat domes can linger for days or even weeks, straining electrical grids and posing serious health risks to vulnerable populations.

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