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Rare Heat Dome Puts 40 Million West Under Record Alerts

7/12/2026

Summary

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A rare heat dome has placed nearly 40 million people in the western United States under severe heat alerts.
The National Weather Service reports 105-115 °F daytime highs, overnight lows above 70 °F, and record-breaking temperatures through next weekend.
Health officials urge limiting outdoor activity, staying hydrated and using cooling centers, warning that heat-related illnesses could strain health systems as the dome shifts eastward toward the Midwest and Northeast.

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Story summary

A rare heat dome has placed nearly 40 million people in the western United States under severe heat alerts.
The National Weather Service reports 105-115 °F daytime highs, overnight lows above 70 °F, and record-breaking temperatures through next weekend.
Health officials urge limiting outdoor activity, staying hydrated and using cooling centers, warning that heat-related illnesses could strain health systems as the dome shifts eastward toward the Midwest and Northeast.