Record heatwave hits East Coast

An unusual and intense heat surge is baking over 20 states, creating summer-like conditions that are fit for a day at the beach in mid-April.

Forecasters warn that the heat's duration is particularly concerning, as it could break temperature records that have stood for over 85 years.

The extreme weather is also driving a massive pollen surge, causing significant misery for millions of seasonal allergy sufferers.

While the East swelters, the Midwest and Plains continue to face a separate threat from severe thunderstorms and potential tornadoes.