Corn Sweat’ Deepens Sweltering Weeklong Heat Dome Scorching Millions in U.S.
"Corn Sweat" Intensifies Record-Breaking U.S. Heat Wave
A dangerous heat dome fueled by Midwest corn crops is scorching over 200 million Americans, with temperatures topping 100°F (38°C) in 30 states. The phenomenon, dubbed "corn sweat," occurs when cornfields release moisture through evapotranspiration—a natural process where plants emit water vapor. Combined with a heat dome trapping air like a lid, this humidity amplifies already brutal conditions, turning regions from the Plains to the East Coast into a sweltering sauna.
[Image: Corn fields contributing to high humidity]
Cornfields in the Midwest are releasing massive moisture, worsening heat indices.
Heat Dome and Corn Sweat Explained
The heat dome—a high-pressure system acting like a lid—prevents cool air and storms from breaking through. As corn in Iowa, Illinois, and Indiana reaches its peak growth stage, each acre can release thousands of gallons of water daily, saturating the air. Climatologist Justin Glisan describes the result as "thick and oppressive… like being fully clothed in a steam room." Heat indices (feels-like temperatures) could hit 115°F (46°C) in parts of the Midwest, with overnight lows offering little relief.
Cities Under Siege
Kansas City, Des Moines, and Chicago face relentless heat, with advisories extending through the weekend. Extreme humidity persists even after sunset, raising health risks for vulnerable populations. The Midwest’s moist soil and relentless sun create unbearable conditions, while the heat dome expands eastward.
[Image: Heat advisory map]
Heat warnings span 37 states, including the rarely affected Northeast.
East Coast Impact
By Friday, the heat dome will envelop New England and the Mid-Atlantic. Maine, where summer highs typically linger in the 70s°F (20s°C), may reach 94°F (34°C), feeling like 100°F (38°C) due to humidity. Boston and New York City could see mid-90s°F (35°C) with muggy nights near 80°F (27°C). Washington, D.C., may feel 110°F (43°C) as Southern moisture compounds the heat.
Southern and Central Plains
Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio endure triple-digit highs, while Little Rock and Jackson swelter through 80°F (27°C) nights. The Central Plains face a looming drought threat: dry soil could push temperatures from 100°F (38°C) to 110°F (43°C) by mid-August.
[Image: Parched soil in the Corn Belt]
Drying soil may escalate temperatures further, reducing cooling evaporation.
Long-Term Forecast
AccuWeather warns this heat wave could persist with minimal rain, despite tropical moisture from the Gulf. Meteorologist Chad Merrill cautions, "This has the look of a long-lasting event." While the Corn Belt isn’t yet in drought, prolonged heat could deplete soil moisture, exacerbating temperatures.
[Image: Heat dome expansion forecast]
The Northeast braces for unrelenting heat through Friday.
Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and check on vulnerable neighbors as this historic heat tests resilience nationwide.
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