Friday's forecast: Giant heat wave hits East Coast

A giant heat wave is expected to hit the East Coast, bringing muggy temperatures in major cities.
Gulf Coast, Southeast: Showers and thunderstorms remain in the forecast through parts of the region. Heavy downpours, ranging from southeast Louisiana through parts of southern Mississippi, could produce flash flood warnings.
Midwest, Plains: Light leftover showers from Thursday are likely to hit the Midwest and northern Plains. A flash flood watch is in effect for northern Illinois and pockets of Missouri.
West: The West Coast will be relatively dry Friday, though storms and showers are expected to soak the Rockies for a consecutive day.
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Weather history for Aug. 12: In 2004, Hurricane Charley made landfall in southwestern Florida and lasted seven days, bringing heavy rain and powerful winds that reached 150 miles per hour during its peak. In 2005, a tornado ravaged the coal-mining town of Wright, Wyo., killing two people and damaging more than 120 homes.