Extreme Heat, Air Quality Alerts Spread Across Mid-Atlantic States

The Mid-Atlantic region is experiencing extreme heat with Maryland, Delaware, and the Delaware Valley under heat advisories due to soaring temperatures and high humidity, with heat index values reaching up to 109 degrees. Maryland has issued a Code Orange Air Quality Alert for Baltimore and surrounding counties, warning sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or heart conditions to avoid strenuous outdoor activities. The heat wave has caused increased medical emergencies, including dehydration and respiratory issues, as seen in Delaware Valley ambulance reports. Philadelphia is facing possible record-breaking highs near 98 degrees, with heat advisories extending through Wednesday before a cold front and storms are expected to bring relief by Thursday and Friday. Delaware is also under a heat advisory with potential severe thunderstorms and flash flooding risks expected later in the week, along with an air quality alert due to trapped pollutants. Officials across the region urge residents to stay hydrated, seek air conditioning, and check on vulnerable neighbors to mitigate heat-related health risks.