Washington, July.12 (SANA)A powerful heat wave is sweeping across much of the United States, bringing dangerously high temperatures to large parts of the country and prompting health warnings from meteorologists.

The extreme heat, driven by a persistent high-pressure system known as a “heat dome,” is expected to affect nearly two-thirds of the continental U.S., with temperatures soaring 15 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit (8–14°C) above seasonal averages. Many regions are also experiencing unusually warm nights, limiting opportunities for the human body to recover from daytime heat.

The National Weather Service forecasts that more than 90 local temperature records could be tied or broken by midweek, including numerous overnight records. Triple-digit temperatures are expected across parts of the Southwest, Great Plains and northern states, including North Dakota, where temperatures above 100°F (38°C) are uncommon.

Authorities and health experts are urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor exposure and seek air-conditioned spaces, while community organizations are providing water, cooling supplies and other assistance to vulnerable groups, particularly homeless populations.

Meteorologists also warned that the prolonged hot and dry conditions could increase wildfire risks in parts of the western United States, including the Rocky Mountains.

Scientists say climate change is making heat waves more frequent, intense and longer-lasting by increasing global temperatures. They also expect weather patterns later this year to be further influenced by a strengthening El Niño, which could rank among the most powerful recorded and contribute to above-average global temperatures in the coming months.