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    Heat alert in US: Summer 2025 forecast for America is out and is worrisome. Check which cities will bear the maximum brunt

    Synopsis

    The US is bracing for a potentially record-breaking hot summer in 2025, with NOAA forecasting above-average temperatures nationwide. The West, Southwest, Gulf Coast, Florida, and Northeast are expected to face extended heat waves, straining infrastructure and posing health risks. Cities may experience extreme conditions, prompting calls for adaptation measures and community solutions.

    Heat alert in USReuters

    Swaths of East Coast, southern plains and West are likely to face the maximum brunt of heat this summer in US

    As US heads into summer and typical hot weather, what’s ahead for June? Will America see a hot start to the summer, or will the relatively benign temperatures of May persist?

    As meteorological summer officials starts on June 1, the United States is preparing for what may become one of its hottest summers in recorded history. According to the latest summer outlook by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), hotter-than-average temperatures are predicted across much of the country this summer.

    Swaths of East Coast, southern plains and West are likely to face the maximum brunt of heat this summer in US, reports ABC News. According to multiple outlooks, summer 2025 will be a scorcher.

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    US to experience coast-coast heatwaves

    "Model guidance was overwhelmingly above normal across the U.S. and most of Alaska for the upcoming summer season," Johnna Infanti, meteorologist for NOAA's Climate Prediction Center told USA TODAY via email. No part of the US is forecast to see a cooler-than-average summer, the report said.

    The NOAA has issued an alarming seasonal outlook through its Climate Prediction Center (CPC), forecasting significantly above-average temperatures across nearly the entire country. Above normal temperatures most likely over the West, Southwest, Florida, and New England, Infanti told USA Today.

    The NOAA Climate Prediction Center forecasts a significantly hotter-than-average summer for the continental United States and much of Alaska, based on strong agreement across multiple climate model simulations. Regions most likely to face extended heat waves include:

    The West and Southwest, particularly Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada

    The Gulf Coast and Florida, where high humidity will intensify heat index levels

    The Northeast and New England, areas that are typically less equipped to handle extreme heat

    “This is one of the most confident summer outlooks we've ever issued,” said Johnna Infanti, a meteorologist at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. “Model guidance overwhelmingly indicates above-normal temperatures across the US”

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    Which US cities will face the worst heat in 2025?

    With climate patterns intensifying, many U.S. cities are expected to endure extreme heat this summer. Here’s where the worst conditions are likely—and why.

    Northeast & New England

    Cities like Boston, Hartford, and New York City could see a spike in 90°F+ days. These regions often lack widespread air conditioning, making heat preparedness especially important.

    Southwest & Four Corners

    Already known for blistering summers, areas like Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Albuquerque may hit record highs above 115°F. These cities face prolonged heatwaves that test both infrastructure and health systems.

    Pacific Northwest

    Normally temperate, Seattle and Portland face risks from multiple heat domes, echoing the deadly 2021 event. With limited cooling infrastructure, these cities remain highly vulnerable.

    Florida & Gulf Coast

    Expect a “wet sauna” effect with heat indices exceeding 110°F, due to high humidity. Conditions will be especially dangerous for outdoor workers and people with pre-existing health conditions.

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    Why cities feel hotter

    Dense urban areas absorb and trap heat due to dark rooftops, concrete, and minimal tree cover. This Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect makes cities significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas.

    Philadelphia may face over 40 days above 90°F—up from its average of 34

    Chicago could see consecutive days over 95°F

    Houston and Dallas are at risk for sweltering nights with temps above 80°F

    Vulnerable groups—low-income residents, seniors, and the chronically ill—face the greatest risks due to lack of cooling options and medical support.

    Why heat is deadlier than storms

    Extreme heat is the top weather-related killer in the U.S., surpassing hurricanes and floods.

    Those at highest risk:

    Seniors (65+)

    Young children

    People with heart or lung conditions

    Outdoor laborers (e.g., in agriculture, construction)

    Common dangers include heat stroke, dehydration, and exhaustion—all of which can escalate quickly and become fatal.

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    Wildfires: A growing threat

    NOAA forecasts below-average rainfall in the Northern Rockies, Pacific Northwest, and Great Plains, increasing wildfire risk.

    High-risk areas in June:

    Coastal Southeast

    Central Texas

    Four Corners

    Northern & Southern California

    By late summer, threats could expand to:

    Hawaii

    Great Basin

    Southern Plains

    Wildfire smoke will also reduce air quality for millions, particularly in downwind urban centers.

    Strain on infrastructure

    Heatwaves will push the limits of public systems:

    Power grids in Texas, Arizona, and California may face blackouts or rolling brownouts

    Water utilities could struggle with increased demand

    Roads and railways risk buckling or warping

    Emergency services will see higher call volumes during peak heat

    Adapting to a Hotter Future

    Personal safety tips

    Drink water frequently (avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks)

    Limit outdoor activity from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    Wear loose, light-colored clothing

    Use air conditioning or visit public cooling centers

    Community Solutions

    Expand green spaces and tree coverage

    Install reflective rooftops and pavements

    Develop early-warning systems for heat events

    Provide AC subsidies to low-income households

    Some cities, like Phoenix and Los Angeles, have appointed Chief Heat Officers to lead local climate resilience efforts. More are expected to follow.


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