AUSTIN (KXAN) — Heavy rain overnight Thursday and into Friday produced over a foot of rainfall in just a few hours in the Hill Country. The National Weather Service has issued multiple Flash Flood Warnings, with a Flash Flood Emergency declared early Friday morning.

Texas’ Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), Department of Public Safety (DPS), Military Department, and Parks & Wildlife Department responded to the region to assist local emergency responders.

Readers wishing to help those impacted by the floods and storms can learn more here.

Weather Resources

This blog is no longer being updated. Visit KXAN.com for the latest updates.

Follow updates below

Saturday

7:36 a.m.

The Kerrville Police Department said rescue teams worked throughout the night and would continue until everyone is found.

“Hundreds of first responders are here with resources from throughout the state to help us,” KPD said. “Our thoughts remain with those who are unaccounted for and their loved ones. They are our focus and will remain so.”

Rescue teams continue working to find those missing after flooding (Kerrville Police Department photo)

Rescue teams continue working to find those missing after flooding (Kerrville Police Department photo)

Rescue teams continue working to find those missing after flooding (Kerrville Police Department photo)

5:20 a.m.

The NWS said a Flash Flood emergency was in effect for Burnet County until 10 a.m.

“5-12” of rain has occurred, an additional 2-5” possible,” NWS said. “This is a Particularly Dangerous Situation with life-threatening flash flooding. Seek higher ground if near a flooded creek or stream. Otherwise, avoid travel.”

4:18 a.m.

“Very dangerous flash flooding ongoing in northwest Travis, western Williamson, and Burnet counties. A very slow moving disturbance is producing extreme rainfall rates. Flash Flood Warnings are in effect as well as a Flash Flood Emergency for northwest Travis County,” NWS said.

3:10 a.m.

Austin-Travis County EMS said it was responding to water rescues in Marble Falls and Leander.

1:04 a.m.

NWS said a Flood Watch was issued through 7 p.m. Saturday.

“Additional rainfall amounts of 2-4″ possible with isolated pockets of 10″ somewhere in the watch area,” NWS said.

12:47 a.m.

The National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood emergency for northwest Travis County around Lake Travis.

“3-6” of rain has occurred last 1-2 hours. Another 2-5” possible. Particularly Dangerous Situation and flash flood event unfolding. Avoid travel & move to higher ground if near a creek or low lying area,” NWS said.

Friday

9:26 p.m.

Governor Abbott announced at least 24 confirmed fatalities during a press event in Kerrville, Texas.

8:30 p.m.

Starke Dam and Wirtz Dam each have multiple gates open now, according to the LCRA.

LCRA said it anticipates holding the floodwater in Lake Travis, which is about 43 feet below full, and does not expect to open floodgates at Mansfield Dam, which forms Lake Travis.

8:00 p.m.

KXAN has learned that the Starke Dam will open its floodgates soon, and that Wirtz has opened its second floodgate.

7:50 p.m.

The Lower Colorado River Authority said it opened a floodgate at Wirtz Dam to release storm run off from the Llano River. It also said it may need to open additional floodgates at the Wirtz and Starcke Dams.

KXAN Meteorologist Freddy Vela said that when this happens, the water level downstream of the dams will rise rapidly. He also noted that the Llano River and San Saba River are now cresting over their banks, making it more likely that additional gates will need to be opened.

Llano River in Kingsland (Credit: Ron Preston)

7:35 p.m.

The city of San Saba asked residents to conserve water, as its pump station was “in jeopardy of going under water.”

This comes hours after a similar request by Kerrville officials.

7:15 p.m.

Kerrville and Kerr County informed KXAN reporters at Kerrville City Hall that their 7 p.m. press conference has been canceled. Those officials said that they will instead speak at the Governor’s 9 p.m. presser.

The Texas Game Wardens said on X that it had made access to Camp Mystic with vehicles and are bringing campers out of the affected area.

6:28 p.m.

Texas Game Warden Command Post Kerrville–we are coordinating the search & rescue efforts of over 60 game wardens from across the state, boats, two helicopters & unmanned aerial systems operators. Rescues continue & we’ll be here to serve our community for as long as we’re needed. pic.twitter.com/SI8h1NFo7X — Texas Game Wardens (@TexasGameWarden) July 4, 2025

5:22 p.m.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott will hold a press conference in Kerrville at 9 p.m. KXAN will attend.

TDEM Chief Nim Kidd, Adjutant General of Texas Major General Thomas Suelzer, DPS Col. Freeman Martin and local officials will also be at the presser.

5:02 p.m.

The city of Kerrville has asked its residents to minimize non-essential water usage. The city’s surface water treatment plant is offline, according to a social media post from the city.

The city is not currently at a critical stage, it said, but asks the community “to be prepared in case the situation worsens.”

4:14 p.m.

Officials from Kerrville and Kerr County gave a press conference at Kerrville City Hall.

Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said that at least 13 people were confirmed dead.

“We’ve got a lot of help out here, we’ll get the job done,” Leitha said. “We want everyone to shelter in place. We don’t have a number for how many are missing yet.”

Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring, Jr. and Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice joined Leitha at the presser. Those officials will reconvene at 7:30 p.m. to provide another update.

“We’ll keep you all updated as much as we can, as fast as we can, but y’all got to understand right now the only concern we have is is rescuing everybody and all these kids out here,” Leitha said.

3:45 p.m.

Air rescue missions like this are being done around the clock.

We will not stop until everyone is accounted for. pic.twitter.com/tqwTr1RkEi — Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) July 4, 2025

3:30 p.m.

Acting Governor Dan Patrick said during a briefing that the Guadalupe River rose 26 feet in 45 minutes. There are 14 helicopters in the air rescuing those impacted by the floodwaters, as well as nine rescue teams with swimmers, and 400-500 responders on the ground.

Patrick said approximately 20 children were unaccounted for from Camp Mystic, which had more than 750 campers. He clarified that could mean they were possibly stuck in a tree or out of communication. Parents of missing Mystic campers have been notified.

According to Patrick, President Donald Trump said federal resources would be provided to the state.

2:40 p.m.

Acting Governor Dan Patrick is expected to speak on the significant flooding in the Hill Country and the Concho Valley.

Acting Gov. Dan Patrick being briefed (KXAN photo/Jordan Belt)

Acting Gov. Dan Patrick being briefed (KXAN photo/Jordan Belt)

Acting Gov. Dan Patrick being briefed (KXAN photo/Jordan Belt)

2:33 p.m.

The National Weather Service confirmed the Kerrville river gauge was not reporting the correct amount, so any totals seen are under-reported; however, NWS can’t make it out there to check for safety reasons.

The Texas Military Department said its Texas Task Force 1 helicopter search and rescue teams were sent to the area.

The Texas National Guard was activated yesterday as part of a multi-agency response to severe weather conditions affecting the Hill Country. Texas Task Force 1 (TX-TF1) helicopter search and rescue teams in Martindale deployed to Hunt and Kerrville, Texas. Our Service Members are… pic.twitter.com/MuT8abtyje — Texas Military Dept. (@TXMilitary) July 4, 2025

2:26 p.m.

KXAN Meteorologist Freddy Vela said the Llano River at Mason is currently in the Major Flooding Category at 29.68 ft. That is 2 feet above Major flooding. The water will be flowing down into Llano over the next few hours, with the Llano River at Llano expected to peak at 7 p.m. and almost hit major flooding at 22.8 ft. (Major flooding is 23 ft.)

The San Saba River near Brady is currently at 29.65 feet, which breaks the record of 29.1 ft. That water will continue flowing down through San Saba, where it is expected to hit 32.6 ft at 7 a.m. tomorrow. The record is 42.1 ft., but it is still considered major flooding.

1:30 p.m.

12:02 p.m.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott provided the following statement regarding the floods in Kerrville.

“Texas is providing all necessary resources to Kerrville, Ingram, Hunt and the entire Texas Hill Country dealing with these devastating floods,” Abbott said. “The State of Texas today has mobilized additional resources in addition to the resources sent in preparation for the storms. I urge Texans to heed guidance from state and local officials and monitor local forecasts to avoid driving into flooded areas.” Greg Abbott

Acting Governor Dan Patrick issued the following statement from the Texas State Emergency Operations Center:

“I am working in coordination with the state’s emergency response team on the significant flooding that occurred in the Hill Country and Concho Valley regions in the early hours of this morning. The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office has reported catastrophic flooding in the area, with several people missing and confirmed loss of life. Additional rain is forecast in those areas. Even if the rain is light, more flooding can occur in those areas. There is an ongoing threat for possible flash flooding from San Antonio to Waco for the next 24 to 48 hours in addition to the continued risks in west and central Texas. “I urge Texans in impacted areas to heed the guidance of their local officials. TDEM and other state emergency response assets are on the ground assisting Texas communities with response operations and any unmet needs. I will hold a press conference from the Texas State Emergency Operations Center in Austin later this afternoon to brief the public and the media with the latest updates. Media advisory to follow.”

11:59 a.m.

Texas Department of Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller provided the following statement regarding the floods in Kerrville. “My prayers go out to the families in Kerrville and across the Hill Country who are dealing with the devastation from these deadly floods. We’ve already seen tragic loss of life, and it’s a heartbreaking reminder that catastrophic flash floods can strike fast and without much warning. Folks, please don’t take chances. Stay alert, follow local emergency warnings, and do not drive through flooded roads. Farmers and ranchers should take steps now to protect livestock and property. Move animals to higher ground, secure your equipment, and be ready. Preparation saves lives, both human and animal. Keep our rescuers and first responders in your prayers as they work around the clock to keep Texans safe. Let’s stay safe and watch out for one another.” Commissioner Sid Miller

11:44 a.m.

The Llano River near Mason is rising rapidly, up to almost 16′. Flash Flood Warnings continue for portions of San Saba, Mason and Gillespie County.

11:30 a.m.

The city of Kerrville held a press conference to provide details on the situation in the area following flash flooding.

10:43 a.m.

All low water crossings on Quinlan Creek have been closed, according to the City of Kerrville. Third Street remains open at this time.

Additional closures include:

Fourth Street

Second Street and Lytle

First Street

Park Street

(City of Kerrville photo) (City of Kerrville photo)

10:34 a.m.

The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office said there was a reunification center set up at Ingram Elementary School, located at 125 Brave Run W, Ingram, TX 78025.

10:30 a.m.

KXAN Meteorologist Tommy House said high-resolution models showed the heaviest rain winding down before 3 p.m., but the river flooding threat will remain through the night.

9:53 p.m.:

KXAN spoke with Sergeant Jonathan Lamb, Public Information Officer with the Kerrville Police Department.

Lamb said the major flooding is impacting the entire county, rescues and evacuations have been ongoing since early this morning and continue at this hour, including in the Hunt area.

Fatalities have been reported and confirmed, but Lamb said there are no fatality numbers reported at the moment.

Authorities currently do not have an estimate of how many homes or businesses have been affected.

9:23 a.m.

The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) said it was working with other state emergency response resources to remain engaged with local officials in support of flooding impacting the state.

8:57 a.m.

Flash Flood Warning issued by NWS for Gillespie County and Mason County. KXAN Meteorologist Tommy House said life-threatening flooding is imminent or occurring. Leave low-lying or flood-prone areas immediately, but do not drive over water-covered roads.

8:43 a.m.

The city of Kerrville’s mayor issued a disaster declaration due to severe flooding.

8:41 a.m.

First United Methodist Church, located at 321 Thompson Drive, was established as a shelter for those displaced by the flooding.

Kerrville Fire Department personnel are monitoring area nursing and assisted living homes, which are sheltering in place.

8:30 a.m.

The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office has reported fatalities.

“This is a catastrophic flooding event in Kerr County. We can confirm fatalities but will not release further information until next of kin are notified.”

The Sheriff’s Office said it was working with a wide variety of local and state agencies to respond to calls and rescues.

“The entire county is an extremely active scene. Residents are encouraged to shelter in place and not attempt travel. Those near creeks, streams, and the Guadalupe River should immediately move to higher ground,” KCSO said.

8:28 a.m.

8:19 a.m.

On Facebook, the Kerrville Fire Department is monitoring local nursing homes along the Guadalupe River.

“Kerrville Fire Department personnel are on site at nursing homes near the river and will take appropriate evacuation measures if necessary. So far, all nursing home residents are sheltering in place,” KFD said.

8:09 a.m.

The City of Kerrville shared in a Facebook post, “due to circumstances out of our control,” its ‘Fourth on the River’ Independence Day celebration has been canceled. The city also said the doors of the Arcadia Live Theater are open to anyone who has been evacuated and needs shelter.

7:59 a.m.

On Facebook, the City of Kerrville shared a list of low water crossings closed and reopened within city limits.

Those crossings are Francisco Lemos, G Street, Schreiner Street at Town Creek, all crossings on Town Creek, Bear Creek Bridge, sections of Water Street that were closed due to flooding are opening again as water recedes, and all crossings on Quinlan Creek are open.

“No other street flooding issues have been reported at this time,” the city said.

7:58 a.m.

The City of Kerrville announced in a Facebook post, it has opened an Emergency Shelter in place at First United Methodist Church.

7:47 a.m.

2 ENE Ingram (Kerr County) – Department of Highways reports Flash Flood.

5:44 a.m.

Hunt, Texas – Reports from Emergency Management officials of high water rescues ongoing along the Guadalupe River and South Fork of the Guadalupe River in Hunt, with people trapped on rooftops.

4:35 a.m.

Guadalupe River at Hunt continues to climb to 29.45 feet, with a forecast stage at 33.9 feet. Law enforcement issued reports of flash floods. The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office reported several low-water crossings flooded.

4:30 a.m.

Richland Springs – Reports from San Saba County dispatch stating that there was flooding across a street, where the Fire Department could not cross with their fire truck on the way to fight a small house fire.

4:20 a.m.

Guadalupe River at Hunt reached a major status, with a state value of 24.7 feet.

4:03 a.m.

Flash Flood Emergency continues with a catastrophic damage threat.

3:20 a.m.

Guadalupe River at Hunt reaches moderate-stage flooding at 13.99 feet.

2:50 a.m.

Guadalupe River at Hunt stage growth reaches 9.15 feet, just shy of minor flood status.

2:20 a.m.

Guadalupe River at Hunt begins to see stage growth up to 8.54 ft.

1:14 a.m.

Flash Flood Warning issued for portions of Bandera and Kerr County.

While Labor Day Weekend is expected to be a busy travel period, AAA said the cost of travel is expected to be lower this year compared to this time last year. “Round-trip flights (are) about 6% lower compared to last year, hotels 11% lower, and rental cars about 3% cheaper than Labor Day 2024,” said Nick Chabarria, a spokesperson for AAA. Chabarria said some of the most popular destinations for the holiday weekend include cities in central Florida; Seattle, which is a popular layover for Alaskan cruises; and New York. As for popular international destinations, he said Barcelona, London, Paris, Amsterdam and Vancouver have been popular. In Arkansas, AAA said the average cost for gas per gallon is about 20 to 30 cents cheaper than this time last year, causing drivers to see some year-over-year savings.If you’re planning to travel by car, AAA advises that you leave early to avoid midday traffic. “Packing up the car the night before and making sure everybody is up and ready first thing in the morning and hitting the road as early as you can,” said Chabarria. Before hitting the road, AAA urged drivers to check or change their car’s oil, test the battery, and have essential items in their car, including jumper cables, cellphone chargers, water and snacks in the case of an emergency. “It’s still construction season in a lot of parts in the country, so make sure you’re paying attention in those work zones and also looking out for flashing lights moving over a lane and slowing down for our first responders,” Chabarria advised drivers planning road trips.

While Labor Day Weekend is expected to be a busy travel period, AAA said the cost of travel is expected to be lower this year compared to this time last year.

“Round-trip flights (are) about 6% lower compared to last year, hotels 11% lower, and rental cars about 3% cheaper than Labor Day 2024,” said Nick Chabarria, a spokesperson for AAA.

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Chabarria said some of the most popular destinations for the holiday weekend include cities in central Florida; Seattle, which is a popular layover for Alaskan cruises; and New York. As for popular international destinations, he said Barcelona, London, Paris, Amsterdam and Vancouver have been popular.

In Arkansas, AAA said the average cost for gas per gallon is about 20 to 30 cents cheaper than this time last year, causing drivers to see some year-over-year savings.

If you’re planning to travel by car, AAA advises that you leave early to avoid midday traffic.

“Packing up the car the night before and making sure everybody is up and ready first thing in the morning and hitting the road as early as you can,” said Chabarria.

Before hitting the road, AAA urged drivers to check or change their car’s oil, test the battery, and have essential items in their car, including jumper cables, cellphone chargers, water and snacks in the case of an emergency.

“It’s still construction season in a lot of parts in the country, so make sure you’re paying attention in those work zones and also looking out for flashing lights moving over a lane and slowing down for our first responders,” Chabarria advised drivers planning road trips.

(NEXSTAR) – With the Fourth of July falling on a Friday, experts at auto club AAA are expecting a record-setting 72.2 million Americans to take a domestic trip over the long weekend, packing the nation’s highways, rails and airports.

As for road trips, AAA is forecasting that a record 61.6 million people will travel by car – a 2.2% increase, or 1.3 million additional travelers, over last year.

“Summertime is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year, and July 4th is one of the most popular times to get away,” said Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel. “Following Memorial Day’s record forecast, AAA is seeing strong demand for road trips and air travel over Independence Day week. With the holiday falling on a Friday, travelers have the option of making it a long weekend or taking the entire week to make memories with family and friends.”

FILE – Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks go off over New York, Thursday, July 4, 2024, seen from Hoboken, N.J. (AP Photo/Julia Nikhinson,File)

What are the best, worst times to drive?

According to transportation data provider Inrix, July 2 and July 6 are expected to be the busiest driving days.

With the potential for construction delays, crashes or severe weather, Independence Day travelers are advised to leave early as the afternoon hours are expected to be the most congested.

Inrix gave this break down of the best and worst times by day:

Date Worst Travel Time Best Travel Time Saturday, Jun 28 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Before 10:00 AM Sunday, Jun 29 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Before 11:00 AM Monday, Jun 30 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 12:00 PM Tuesday, Jul 01 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 2:00 PM Wednesday, Jul 02 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM Before 12:00 PM Thursday, Jul 03 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 12:00 PM Friday, Jul 04 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM Before 12:00 PM Saturday, Jul 05 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Before 11:00 AM Sunday, Jul 06 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 11:00 AM (Credit: Inrix)

A number of major highways received special mention when it comes to the worst travel times (all times local):

City Trip Type From To Road Day Time Atlanta Departing Atlanta Birmingham I-20 W Sun. 29th 12:15 PM Returning Savannah Atlanta I-16 W Sun. 6th 2:30 PM Boston Departing Boston Hyannis Route 3 S Sat. 28th 10:45 AM Returning Hyannis Boston Route 3 N Sat. 5th 11:45 AM Chicago Departing Chicago Indianapolis I-65 S Wed. 2nd 6:00 PM Returning Milwaukee Chicago I-94 E Sun. 6th 2:30 PM Denver Departing Denver Fort Collins I-25 N Mon. 30th 1:45 PM Returning Fort Collins Denver I-25 S Sat. 5th 6:30 PM Detroit Departing Detroit Toronto I-94 E Thu. 3rd 3:00 PM Returning Grand Rapids Detroit I-96 E Sat. 5th 1:30 PM Houston Departing Houston Galveston I-45 S Sat. 28th 11:15 AM Returning Galveston Houston I-45 N Sun. 6th 11:45 AM Los Angeles Departing Los Angeles San Diego I-5 S Sat. 28th 5:00 PM Returning Las Vegas Los Angeles I-15 S Sun. 6th 5:00 PM Minneapolis Departing Minneapolis Eau Claire I-94 E Sun. 29th 2:00 PM Returning Eau Claire Minneapolis I-94 W Sun. 6th 3:45 PM New York Departing New York Jersey Shore Garden State Pkwy S Tue. 1st 4:30 PM Returning Albany New York I-87 S Sun. 6th 4:15 PM Philadelphia Departing Philadelphia Rehoboth Beach I-95 & Route 13 Sat. 28th 10:45 AM Returning Poconos Philadelphia I-76/I-476 PA Tpke Sun. 6th 1:15 PM Portland Departing Portland Eugene I-5 S Wed. 2nd 5:00 PM Returning Eugene Portland I-5 N Sun. 6th 4:45 PM San Diego Departing San Diego Palm Springs I-15 N Wed. 2nd 5:45 PM Returning Palm Springs San Diego I-15 S Sat. 5th 3:00 PM San Francisco Departing San Francisco Sacramento I-80 E Wed. 2nd 5:30 PM Returning Sacramento San Francisco I-80 W Sun. 6th 4:30 PM Seattle Departing Seattle Ocean Shores I-5 S Wed. 2nd 5:45 PM Returning Ellensburg Seattle I-90 E Sun. 6th 4:30 PM Tampa Departing Tampa Orlando I-4 E Wed. 2nd 2:30 PM Returning Orlando Tampa I-4 W Fri. 4th 3:45 PM Washington, DC Departing Washington, DC Annapolis US-50 E Sat. 28th 1:45 PM Returning Annapolis Washington, DC US-50 W Fri. 4th 11:30 AM (Credit: Inrix)

Before fighting your way through Fourth of July traffic, AAA recommends taking the following precautions: get routine vehicle maintenance done beforehand, and make sure to pack an emergency kit.

TSA prepares for crush of air travelers

The Transportation Security Administration says it is prepared for the holiday rush at the nation’s airports, but warns air travelers that they should expect the busiest day to be Sunday, July 6, when passenger volume is forecast to reach 2.9 million.

Travelers check their flights at Miami International Airport, Saturday, July 2, 2022, in Miami. The Fourth of July holiday weekend is jamming U.S. airports with the biggest crowds since the pandemic began in 2020. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

“We are deploying technologies and procedures to improve security and enhance the passenger experience, including for families,” TSA Acting Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill said in a press release. “We ask travelers to pack their patience, especially during peak travel days, as we work to provide maximum hospitality to our customers.”

The TSA also reminds parents and guardians enrolled in TSA PreCheck that children 12 and under can accompany them in the security lanes without any restrictions.

Fireworks burst on the National Mall above the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol building during Independence Day celebrations Thursday, July 4, 2024 in Washington. (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib)

AAA projects that the Fourth of July week will see a record 5.84 million air travelers over the Independence Day week, a 1.4% jump from last year’s record of 5.76 million.

Also up from last year is the average cost of a domestic flight for the holiday – $810 is 4% higher than last year’s numbers.

According to AAA, the most popular domestic destinations are Orlando, FL; Seattle, WA; New York, NY; Anchorage, AK; Fort Lauderdale, FL; Honolulu, FL; Denver, CO; Miami, FL; Boston, MA; and Atlanta, GA.

The top international destination is Vancouver, Canada, followed by Rome, Italy; Paris, France; London, England; Barcelona, Spain; Dublin, Ireland; Amsterdam, Netherlands; Calgary, Canada; Athens, Greece; and Lisbon, Portugal.

A dangerous heat wave is scorching a huge chunk of the eastern United States, as tens of millions of people from Kansas to Maine endured “extreme heat risk,” the National Weather Service said on June 23.

The fierce heat is expected to last through the first half of the week before easing, according to forecasters. AccuWeather meteorologists warned that high temperatures are expected to approach and even surpass 100 degrees in more than three dozen states from the Great Plains to New England regions.

Heat warnings, which began over the weekend, remained in effect across much of the country. Local officials on the East Coast have said many areas could experience conditions that “feel like” 110 degrees as the heat combines with humidity.

Temperatures, including highs in the 90s to 100s and lows in the 70s to 80s will “break numerous records over the next several days,” according to the weather service. By the afternoon on June 23, sweltering temperatures blanketed much of the northeast as some areas reported daily high temperature records and heat index values reaching triple digits.

“This level of heat risk is known for being rare and/or long duration with little to no overnight relief, and affects anyone without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration,” the weather service said in an online forecast released on June 23.

Where could heat records be set?

Dozens of locations, especially in the Northeast, will be within striking distance of daily record highs, especially through June 24, said Weather.com meteorologist Jonathan Erdman.

In Washington, D.C., for instance, the weather service said “daily records may be broken for both daytime high temperatures as well as for the warm overnight lows.” And in New England, daily record highs seem likely at some of our climate sites on June 24, the weather service in Boston said, and “in some instances, could possibly threaten all-time June high temps.”

The heat index — which is what the temperature feels like to the human body — reached between 107 and 108 degrees in at least three counties in New Hampshire, including Chichester, Jeffrey, Richmond, and Cornish, according to the weather service office in Gray, Maine.

The heat index, a combination of temperature and dew point, also reached triple digits in parts of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

In Philadelphia, where temperature records have been kept since 1873, a new daily record was set on June 23 at 99 degrees, breaking the previous mark of 98, set in 2024. Other daily high temperatures included 97 degrees in Alpena, Michigan; 96 degrees in Concord, New Hampshire; and 94 degrees in Syracuse, New York.

Record high temperatures were also set in several New Jersey towns on June 23, including 101 degrees in Bergenfield, 100 degrees in Paterson, and 98 degrees in Sussex, according to forecasters. The weather service issued an extreme heat warning for the area until 8 p.m. on June 24.

State, local officials implement safety measures due to the heat

In Philadelphia, the city’s public health department declared a heat emergency through June 25.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in 32 counties in response to severe weather and extreme heat. Heat index values from 95 to 107 degrees will make temperatures feel hotter across the Hudson Valley, with peak temperatures anticipated through June 24.

The governor’s order, according to a news release, means the state Emergency Operations Center has been activated. State agencies, including the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services and the Office of Fire Prevention and Control, were deploying resources such as light towers, pumps, generators, and water rescue teams to impacted areas.

Some East Coast trains were halted en route for safety precautions on June 23. Amtrak said in a statement that its cars would operate at lower speeds due to heat restrictions.

Amtrak heat restrictions kick in when temperatures are higher than 95 degrees. The company also reduces its train speeds when the tracks themselves reach 128 degrees.

Some police departments said they were taking steps to protect officers who were stationed outdoors. Departments in Raleigh, North Carolina, and Washington, D.C., urged officers to stay hydrated or to stay in the shade where possible.

Electrical grid operators also directed power plants to be prepared to run at maximum force, with electricity demand expected to spike as people run fans and air conditioners to stay cool, according to Reuters.

New Jersey graduation shuts down as 16 hospitalized, 160 seek heat relief

After declaring “a mass casualty event,” emergency management officials shut down a high school commencement ceremony in Paterson, New Jersey, on June 23. The Paterson Press, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported that 166 attendees, including graduates and family members, were overcome by the heat.

As temperatures climbed closer to 100 degrees, emergency medical technicians scrambled to respond to people in the crowd suffering from heat exhaustion. City officials intervened about an hour into the afternoon ceremony and ordered an end to the commencement as school administrators were in the middle of announcing the names of graduates from Eastside High School.

“Too many people were passing out,” said school board member Corey Teague, who asserted that he had suggested days earlier that the graduations be moved inside to air-conditioning at the city’s various high schools.

Paterson Fire Chief Alex Alicea said nine people were taken to hospital emergency rooms and 50 others evaluated for heat problems during the morning commencement. In the afternoon, Alicea said another seven attendees were transported to the hospital, and 100 additional people were checked for heat issues.

Heat causes more than 50 road closures in Wisconsin

Dozens of roads were closed in Wisconsin as pavement buckled in the extreme heat statewide. There were at least 53 pavement buckles across the state over the weekend, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

Pavement buckling — which can occur when the weather quickly changes from cool to very hot — is when slabs of pavement expand and push against one another so much it can create unexpected bumps or dips.

Milwaukee County Department of Transportation Director of Public Affairs and Marketing Nicole Armendariz said that while Milwaukee County has addressed all reported concrete buckling in the county, roads will still be at risk while the extreme heat persists through June 23.

“We urge the public to drive with caution and reduce your speed if you suspect an uneven surface ahead, regardless of the age of the road, as this condition could happen even on new roads,” Armendariz told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, part of the USA TODAY Network.

Heat wave already a record-breaker

Already, daily record highs were set on June 19 in Salt Lake City (104 degrees), the city’s first triple-digit high of the year, Erdman said. On June 21, Mitchell, South Dakota, broke its daily high temperature record at 104 degrees, smashing its previous record of 101 degrees.

High temperature records were also set on June 21 across Minnesota and Wyoming. On June 22, Marquette, Michigan, broke its daily high temperature record with a high of 93 degrees.

Records were also broken overnight as temperatures remained well above normal in some locations. In Holland, Michigan, the overnight low never dropped below 80 degrees, breaking the previous daily record of 71, set in 2024, 1988, and 1908. Kalamazoo, in southern Michigan, also set a record for its overnight low — at 78 — breaking a record of 72, set in 1988.

A map from the National Weather Service shows the areas where heat risk is highest for Monday June 23 to Thursday June 26, 2025.

How hot will it get?

AccuWeather meteorologist Bill Deger said that in major cities such as Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York, the mercury is forecast to get very close to or even hit 100 degrees for a few days, through at least June 24, “which would mark the first time for some in many decades since triple-digit heat has been experienced in June,” he said.

In New York, Erdman said Central Park hasn’t reached 100 degrees since July 18, 2012, according to the weather service. Philadelphia hasn’t reached 100 degrees in June since 1994. Boston’s last 100-degree high was on July 24, 2022.

Heat is the No. 1 weather-related killer

Due to its cumulative effect on the human body, prolonged exposure to hot weather can kill, AccuWeather said.

Although heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable, about 1,220 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Heat-related illnesses can become severe or even deadly if left unattended, the CDC warns.

According to Scientific American, extreme heat is the No. 1 weather-related cause of death in the United States. “It kills more people most years than hurricanes, floods and tornadoes combined,” AccuWeather said.

The risk of death is especially elevated for those who lack air conditioning or work outdoors.

Look for signs of heat illness

Heat-related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat, the weather service said. Those at higher risk for heat-related illnesses include children, pregnant people, and older adults, according to the agency.

“Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing” and “take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” the weather service said.

How to stay safe during extreme heat

The weather service advised the public to “stay weather-ready,” noting that people should avoid overexertion and should stay hydrated. It added that heat strokes can occur during moderate heat.

The agency shared “essential tips” to stay safe during extreme heat:

Avoid exercising during the hottest parts of the day.

Try to stay indoors in air-conditioned areas or take breaks in the shade if you’re unable to access air-conditioned environments.

Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and use hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen for sun protection.

The agency said people should never leave people or their pets in a vehicle, adding that hot car deaths occur year-round. The weather service also urged the public to check in on their neighbors amid dangerous conditions.

For people without consistent access to air-conditioned environments, hundreds of cooling centers are available across all states expected to be impacted by the extreme heat, AccuWeather said.

Why is it so hot? Blame the ‘heat dome’

A strong bubble of high pressure known as a heat dome has parked itself over the eastern United States, Erdman said, who added that “sinking air near the center of this heat dome suppresses clouds, allowing the intense sunshine this time of year to heat the ground and air above it most efficiently.”

A heat dome occurs when a persistent region of high pressure traps heat over an area, according to William Gallus, professor of atmospheric science at Iowa State University.

“The heat dome can stretch over several states and linger for days to weeks, leaving the people, crops, and animals below to suffer through stagnant, hot air that can feel like an oven,” Gallus said in an article in The Conversation.

Southerly and southwesterly winds are also tapping hot and humid air from the South into the Midwest and Northeast this week. This heat dome will only slowly weaken and “flatten out” in the East in the week ahead, Erdman added.

Contributing: Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA TODAY; Joe Malinconico, Paterson Press; Michael P. McKinney Rockland/Westchester Journal News; Jack Albright, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel; Reuters

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Record-smashing heat wave to scorch tens of millions