Meteorologists at the NOAA Weather Prediction Center are cautioning about “dangerous heat” expected to escalate across the Southern and Eastern parts of the United States this weekend, with temperatures soaring far above typical levels. The mixture of extreme heat and humidity is likely to elevate heat index values to perilous levels for outdoor laborers, seniors, and children. Health authorities are advising residents in the affected regions to stay hydrated, reduce outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, and check in on those who are vulnerable. This heat wave coincides with strong storms that are still impacting the Midwest and Northeast.