Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleJeff MartinThursday 16 April 2026 02:51 BSTHow heat waves formThe eastern United States is experiencing an unseasonably long heat wave, threatening to break record-high temperatures in major cities, including New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.Forecasters predict temperatures in the low to mid-90s Fahrenheit, with the heat expected to persist into the upcoming weekend, which is highly unusual for April due to its duration.This early-season heat, driven by a strong ridge of high pressure, poses health risks as people have not yet acclimated, though humidity levels are not at typical summertime highs.While inland areas are sweltering, the Jersey Shore offered a cooler reprieve, attracting people to boardwalks where a gentle breeze kept temperatures lower.The heat wave is expected to break down by Sunday as a strong cold front moves toward the Eastern Seaboard, bringing pleasantly cooler temperatures by Monday.In fullEast Coast braces for prolonged heat wave as temperatures near recordsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in