A sweaty Fourth of July ahead for the US as extreme heat descends on 20 states

An extreme heat wave affecting 20 U.S. states, including Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky, is expected to persist through the weekend with temperatures in the upper 90s and heat indices exceeding 115 degrees. The National Weather Service warns of serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations, as over 200 million people reside in affected areas. The heat wave coincides with the 250th anniversary celebrations and outdoor events, complicating recovery efforts in Kentucky after recent floods.