A HEAT DOME occurs when a persistent region of high pressure traps heat over an area. The heat dome can stretch over several states and linger for days to weeks, leaving the people, crops and animals below to suffer through stagnant, hot air that can feel like an oven.
Typically, heat domes are tied to the behavior of the jet stream, a band of fast winds high in the atmosphere that generally runs west to east.
Continue reading for free
Sign in to read this story and receive the weekly roundup in your inbox.
Success! Your account was created and you’re signed in.
Please visit My Account to manage your account.