Record Warmth to Fuel Storms Across Eastern US

Millions could face threat of damaging hail and possible tornadoes as heat wave and storm system move through region

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:09pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A vast, majestic landscape painting in the style of Caspar David Friedrich, depicting a small town or city dwarfed by the overwhelming power of an intense heat wave, with dramatic backlighting and deep atmospheric perspective conveying the sublime scale of the natural world.As a powerful heat wave grips the Eastern US, the region braces for record-breaking temperatures and the threat of severe storms that could disrupt communities for days.Today in Raleigh

A powerful heat wave is set to sweep across the Eastern United States this week, with over 150 potential record highs expected from Tuesday through Saturday. The surge of summer-like warmth will also fuel multiple days of rain and thunderstorms, especially in the Northeast.

Why it matters

This extreme weather event could have significant impacts on communities across the Eastern US, from power outages and transportation disruptions to heightened wildfire risks. The combination of record heat and severe storms also raises concerns about the effects of climate change on seasonal weather patterns.

The details

Temperatures are forecast to climb more than 20 degrees above normal in some areas, with cities like Raleigh, Washington DC, Richmond, and Charlotte potentially reaching the 90-degree mark by mid-week. As the northern edge of the high-pressure ridge weakens, rain and thunderstorms are expected to develop across the Northeast later in the week. Wildfire concerns are also heightened due to the dry and hot conditions.

  • On Monday through Thursday, over 100 daily record highs could be tied or broken, with the majority occurring on Tuesday.
  • By Wednesday, Raleigh, North Carolina, could reach a record high with temperatures near 90 degrees.
  • The next chance of rain for the Northeast is not expected until later in the week.

The players

FOX Weather

The weather forecasting division of the FOX News Media network.

Climate Prediction Center

A division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that provides long-range weather forecasts and climate outlooks.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The FOX Forecast Center will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the potential for record-breaking temperatures and severe weather across the Eastern US.

The takeaway

This extreme weather event highlights the growing threat of climate change-fueled heat waves and severe storms, which can have significant impacts on communities across the Eastern US. Monitoring and preparing for these types of weather events will be crucial in the years to come.