What You Need to Know About the "Heat Dome" Taking Over The U.S.

If it’s felt hotter to you than usual in Orlando or in the Eastern United States, it’s not in your head — it genuinely HAS been hotter.

Disney World is almost always hot during the summer, sometimes unbearably so, but this week has been something different. This is due to a weather phenomenon happening all over the Eastern United States, and we’re at its peak right now. No, it’s not just a heat wave — it’s a heat dome.

According to CNN, a heat wave that’s specified as a heat dome has settled over the Eastern US this week, and it’s just hit its peak. It’s bringing the hottest temperatures of the year so far, and in some cities, it’s the hottest it’s been in years.

Temperatures in some locations from Philadelphia to Boston are the highest they’ve been in over a decade — in fact, over 250 daily temperature records could be broken today and Tuesday alone.

It’ll feel more like July, the hottest summer month, instead of June, as many cities are seeing temperatures 15-20 degrees above normal for this time of year. Over 150 million people were under heat alerts on Monday. A level 4-of-4 extreme heat risk is in place in many locations until at least Thursday.

Heat-related illnesses increase drastically during heat waves like this, so you need to ensure you’re staying hydrated — even more so during the summer — because it’s so easy for you to get dehydrated and not realize it until it’s too late and you’re feeling gross. That’s the last thing you want in Disney World.

Crowds at the Transportation and Ticket Center

In Disney, take advantage of the free water around Disney’s quick service restaurants and take time to fill up your water as many times as needed. Additionally, if you need to take a break, DO IT! Don’t force yourself to keep going if you’re feeling worn down. It’s better to take a break for 20 minutes than have to cut your day short because you’re dealing with a heat-related illness.