Heat dome fuels Northeast storms as summer heat lingers into fall

A central U.S. heat dome is driving temperatures above 100°F in much of the South and Midwest, with overnight lows 10–15°F above average. The high-pressure system also steers storms around its edge, bringing rounds of heavy rain and possible flooding to the Northeast and Great Lakes this week. The first heavy rain threat appears Sunday afternoon into Monday, with 2–3 inches possible from the Great Lakes into southern New England, and additional rain rounds likely Tuesday through Thursday with uncertain exact locations. Rising atmospheric moisture from a warming climate is fueling heavier downpours.