Polk County residents are feeling the full force of a Central Florida heat wave this week, with heat index values soaring to dangerous levels. In some parts of the county, the index has reportedly reached as high as 108 degrees,

The National Weather Service has issued severe thunderstorm warnings for New York City and parts of the Hudson Valley, New Jersey and Connecticut, with expected wind gusts of up to 70 mph and potential hail. After several mild summer weather days, the excessive heat has returned. Additionally, severe weather could be a factor for some Friday night.

Central Florida is currently experiencing a dangerous heat wave, with temperatures expected to challenge record highs in multiple counties.

According to the National Weather Service, Central Florida is under a heat advisory today, and the heat index is expected to reach between 108 and 110 degrees.

An intense heat wave threatens millions of people across the Southeast with temperatures reaching 115 degrees through midweek.

Central Florida is currently experiencing a dangerous heat wave, which is why the FOX 35 Storm Team has labeled Saturday through Tuesday as Weather Impact Days.

ORLANDO, Fla. – A dangerous and potentially record-breaking heat wave is building across Florida this weekend. A strong dome of high pressure is locking into place, cutting off rain chances and sending temperatures soaring.

How low should you set your thermostat for as record-breaking heat sweeps over the country? Here's what experts and other Floridians say.

A dome of high pressure has parked itself over Florida, pressing a lid on the atmosphere. That means clear skies, blazing sunshine, and very little rain to cool us off. Add dew points in the mid to upper 70s, and your body’s cooling system is working overtime.

Meteorologists warned that the oppressive heat wave is part of a larger system impacting much of the Southeast and Midwest.