美国中部和南部地区正在经历第二天的极端热浪，至少4000万人处于极端高温警告范围内[1][2]。热指数超过100°F(38°C)，部分西南地区预计达到120°F(49°C)[1][2]。南达科他州Rapid City在周六报告了112°F的历史最高温[1][2]。
气象学家将此次热浪归因于热穹顶现象，这种大气条件将热量困住，导致高温延长和加剧[1]。专家警告儿童、老人和有医学疾病的人群面临热中风甚至死亡的风险[1]。Pete Miller表示："情况极其炎热，我们看到很多人被热量耗尽，这种方式真的很危险"[2]。为应对极端高温，官方建议民众寻求空调、冷却中心、充分饮水并限制直晒时间[2]。Canterbury Park的赛马活动因高温被取消[2]。
周中预计会有暂时缓解，但高温可能在周末回返[1]。美国大陆2026年上半年是有记录以来第二热的半年[2]。
A severe heatwave is gripping the central and southern United States for a second consecutive day, with at least 40 million people under extreme heat warnings [1][2]. Heat indices are soaring above 100°F (38°C), with parts of the Southwest expected to reach 120°F (49°C) [1][2]. Rapid City, South Dakota reported a record high of 112°F on Saturday [1][2].
Meteorologists attribute the prolonged extreme temperatures to a heat dome phenomenon that traps atmospheric heat and intensifies the high temperatures [1]. According to Pete Miller, "It's extraordinarily hot," and "We're seeing a lot of people who are exhausted, drained by the heat in a way that is really dangerous" [1]. Health officials are warning that children, elderly people, and those with medical conditions face heightened risks of heat stroke and death [1]. Experts recommend seeking air-conditioned spaces, visiting cooling centers, staying hydrated, and limiting direct sun exposure [2].
The heatwave is expected to bring temporary relief mid-week, though high temperatures could return by the weekend [1]. The first half of 2026 marked the second-hottest half-year on record for the continental United States [1][2]. The event has already disrupted daily life, including the cancellation of horse racing at Canterbury Park due to the dangerous conditions [2].