As the United States (US) braces for a week of erratic weather, meteorologists are predicting a rollercoaster of conditions from scorching heatwaves to unexpected snowfall and severe thunderstorms.
In the Southwest, temperatures continue to soar with Phoenix recently hitting a blistering 113 degrees Fahrenheit. The heatwave shows no signs of relenting, posing challenges for residents who are advised to take precautions against extreme heat.
Moving eastward, the Northeast, Midwest, and Great Lakes regions are set to experience a significant rise in temperatures reaching into the 90s at the start of the week. Meteorologist Tom Kines warns that high humidity will make it feel even hotter, potentially reaching near 100 degrees in some areas. This surge marks the first intense heatwave of the year for many locations, promising discomfort through the weekend.
Contrasting sharply with the heat, parts of the Northern Rockies are preparing for unseasonably cold weather. Meteorologists are puzzled by the sudden drop in temperatures, which will dip into the 20s and low 30s at night, bringing unexpected snowfall to high-altitude areas. However, temperatures are expected to gradually return to more typical ranges in the 60s and 70s as the week progresses.
The clash between warm and cold fronts is predicted to trigger severe thunderstorms across several regions. Experts highlight areas from eastern Nebraska to northern Wisconsin as prone to sudden flooding, while powerful storms are anticipated over eastern Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Additionally, a surge of warm, moist air along the middle Gulf Coast heightens concerns of intense downpours and flash flooding from Sunday evening through Monday morning.
With such varied and extreme weather patterns expected across the country, authorities urge residents to stay informed and prepared for rapid changes in weather conditions. As summer officially approaches, the unpredictability of June’s weather serves as a stark reminder of nature’s capacity to surprise and challenge.