A record-breaking heat wave is currently affecting nearly half of the United States, with over 170 million people under heat alerts across the South and the East. Tampa, Florida, has recorded temperatures hitting 100 degrees for the first time in history. The oppressive heat is expected to push heat indices as high as 120 degrees in some areas, with dangerous conditions anticipated throughout the week. While storms are forecasted to bring some relief later, the immediate future remains focused on managing the extreme temperatures impacting daily life and health across the region.