First Major Heat Wave Of The Season Coming To RI

RHODE ISLAND — The first heat wave of the year is on its way to the Northeast, bringing the first round of 90-degree days to Rhode Island next week, according to Accuweather.

Millions of people in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic will be affected by the heat wave starting Monday, with the heat dome expected to continue to bake parts of the Southwest and interior Northwest all week, Accuweather said.

Rising temperatures will lead to a surge in electricity demand for cooling, putting pressure on the power grid to run air conditioners, according to AccuWeather's Global Weather Center.

The forecast for Providence calls for temperatures reaching 93 degrees Thursday and 91 degrees Friday, The Weather Channel says.

People in areas with temperatures reaching the 90s and 100s are "encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing, and take breaks in air-conditioned rooms or shaded areas," AccuWeather said.

On average, heat waves kill more Americans than any other type of severe weather such as tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, and lightning, according to AccuWeather.