Temperatures expected to soar in the South over sizzling Father’s Day weekend

“Above average temperatures are also forecast across the central Great Basin and northern Plains ahead of a cold front, with well below average temperatures encompassing the Pacific Northwest,” the National Weather Service said in an update Saturday.

Six counties in Arizona are under excessive heat warnings over the weekend, including Maricopa, Pinal and Graham counties.

Temperatures are also expected to sizzle next week from the Midwest to the Northeast, where “several dozen” record afternoon highs are expected.

“By Sunday, an upper level ridge is anticipated to begin building across the Eastern U.S., with anomalous heat starting in much of the Midwest, Central Plains, and Tennessee Valley,” the weather service said. “Highs are forecast to reach the upper 90s, with maximum heat indices near 105 degrees. When combined with warm overnight lows, major heat risk could affect anyone without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration.”

Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont activated the state’s extreme hot weather protocol in preparation for the sizzling temperatures from Tuesday to Sunday.

The weather service warned that heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths, and encouraged people to stay in shady or air conditioned areas, wear light-colored clothing and stay hydrated.

“Take it seriously,” the weather service said on X.