A massive heat wave sweeping across the eastern and central United States has caused over 20 deaths in the past week, with New Jersey reporting the highest toll of 25 fatalities since July 2. Many victims were discovered in homes lacking air conditioning, while others were found in streets or parked cars. Dr. Raynard E. Washington, the New Jersey Department of Health commissioner, noted that victim ages range from their mid-30s to their 80s. Significant heat-related incidents occurred during the Fourth of July weekend, including dozens of hospitalizations at a Pennsylvania locomotive event and hundreds of patient contacts at the National Mall in Washington, DC, where heat indices exceeded 110 degrees. While the East Coast may see relief through upcoming thunderstorms, a new heat dome is expected to bring sweltering temperatures to the West Coast soon.