The heat wave poses significant risks to public health and safety, particularly in the central and southern Plains, Mississippi Valley, and the Southeast. Heat indices in these areas could exceed 105-115°F (40-46°C), creating major to extreme heat risk levels. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are at heightened risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The NWS has issued extreme heat warnings for states including Arizona, Arkansas, California, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin.