What is a heat dome?
NEW YORK (PIX11) – An expected heat wave is coming to the New York City area, with temperatures possibly hitting a sweltering 90 degrees for multiple days.
Heat index values could hit 100 degrees on both Tuesday and Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. In addition to the sweltering temperatures, a heat dome might settle over the Big Apple and the tri-state area.
But what exactly is a heat dome?
A heat dome is when high pressure prevents warm air from rising, trapping it as if it were a dome, according to the American Meteorological Society. It's as if a lid was placed on a pot of boiling water on the stove – the warm air cannot leave, causing temperatures to skyrocket.
New York City officials are urging New Yorkers to take extra precautions, including staying hydrated, staying in a cool location and reducing your time outside.
Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here.