What is a heat dome? Understanding the weather phenomenon driving extreme summer heat
By
@NatGeo
Summary
A heat dome is a weather phenomenon where a high-pressure ridge traps hot air near the surface, preventing it from rising and causing it to compress and grow hotter over large areas. Unlike general heat waves, heat domes require specific weather conditions to form. The term has become popular in recent years despite not being a formal scientific term. The article explains the mechanics behind heat domes and notes that extreme humidity and triple-digit temperatures are expected to affect millions across the United States.
Source
Twitter / XWhat is a heat dome? Understanding the weather phenomenon driving extreme summer heaton.natgeo.comKey quotes
· 3 pulledWhen hot air attempts to rise it's blocked by the high-pressure ridge. As it sinks, it compresses and grows steadily hotter, producing conditions of extreme heat near the surface over areas hundreds of miles in size.
The term 'heat dome,' which isn't a formal scientific term, has become a popular way to describe the phenomenon in recent years.
Unlike a heat wave, in which various factors might cause hot weather, it takes specific weather conditions to create a heat dome.
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