Heat wave sweeps US Northeast and Canada, advisories issued

A widespread and dangerous heat wave is affecting large portions of the United States and Canada, bringing extreme temperatures, poor air quality, and the threat of severe thunderstorms. The intense heat, which began on July 14, is expected to peak on July 15 and 16, with numerous cities under heat advisories and warnings.

In the United States, the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic are bearing the brunt of the conditions. Heat advisories are in effect for millions of people from Boston and New York City to Philadelphia and as far west as Buffalo, New York. An extreme heat warning is active for Philadelphia and parts of New Jersey. Forecasts indicate temperatures will reach the upper 90s and low 100s Fahrenheit, with heat index values making it feel as hot as 104 to 110 degrees in some locations. Washington, D.C., is expected to reach 102 degrees. Officials warn these conditions are life-threatening for vulnerable populations without access to adequate cooling.

Simultaneously, much of central and eastern Canada is under Environment Canada weather warnings. Heat warnings cover most of Ontario and parts of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories, with temperatures forecast...