Father's Day is around the corner, and while dads across America are bracing themselves for another round of socks, ties, or "World's Best Dad" mugs, the weather has its own gift idea: a scorching heat wave. Just in time for the special day, an extreme heat wave is expected to impact the central and southern US, resulting in what could be the most memorable (and sweltering) Father's Day weekend in recent history.

Temperatures in several states, including California, Texas, Tennessee, Kansas, and South Carolina, are expected to soar into the mid-90s or higher (CNN; USA Today). And while nothing says "I love you" quite like a potential heatstroke, the National Weather Service and health officials are warning people to take precautions and stay hydrated during the extreme heat. After all, nothing spoils a Father's Day barbecue faster than someone melting into the grill.

Much of the nation will face unseasonably warm temperatures between June 20-24, with the Northeast pegged to experience the most abnormally warm weather. If you thought battling holiday traffic was the height of summer misery, imagine navigating it when you're essentially driving through a sauna.

An expansive heat dome will build over the East and stretch into the Midwest and Great Lakes, trapping air and making each day hotter than the last. Millions will be affected by these sweltering conditions, which are expected to reach extreme levels and pose significant health risks. Record-breaking temperatures are on the horizon, with some areas potentially tying or breaking numerous records. If there were ever a time to consider gifting your dad an air conditioner, this would be it.

Forecasters expect a severe heat index, with values reaching 100-105 degrees in many areas. Considering that heat waves are the deadliest form of weather in the US—causing more deaths annually than hurricanes and tornadoes combined—it might be wise to swap out the golf clubs for something more practical, like a cooling center reservation.

Parts of Iowa and Missouri face an extreme level of heat, with temperatures reaching levels that could significantly impact health. Heat preparedness information is being disseminated, advising people to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during the peak heat of the day. A well-timed air conditioning unit could not only make you the favorite child but also ensure Dad makes it to next Father's Day.

Cooling centers and air conditioning are highly recommended for those in affected areas, especially in cities with higher overnight temperatures (USA Today; CNN). If your dad lives in a place where even the moon sweats after sunset, consider it a hint from the universe.

Sunday's heat will be felt across Illinois, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Kansas, and more, with extreme levels anticipated in some areas. Just when Dad thought the only thing he'd be sweating over this weekend was the family dinner bill.

The heat wave will progress into the larger cities of the Midwest and Northeast by the start of the workweek, so when your dad tells you he feels hot just from looking at the weather report, he's not exaggerating.

The National Weather Service advises avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day and never leaving children or pets in cars. Yes, not even for a minute—it turns out dogs and kids aren't that great at operating car windows.

So, what's the takeaway? As temperatures rise and the risk of heat-related illnesses climbs, the perfect gift for Father's Day might just be the gift of cool air. Maybe it's time to shelve those socks and ties for now and consider investing in an air conditioner. After all, nothing says "Happy Father's Day" quite like not needing to oscillate between the oven that is outside and the icebox that is the fridge.

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