Severe heat puts 220 million Americans at risk, the Celtics win Game 3 of the NBA Finals and ‘Bridgerton’ Part 2 premieres

Good morning, everyone. If you need a few more low-effort meals this week, these frozen dinners use high-quality ingredients. Now, on to the news.

NEED TO KNOW

Severe heat puts 220 million in U.S. at risk

Severe weather continues to plague the Southern U.S. as the Midwest and East brace for significantly hotter temperatures.

In the Southwest: More than 220 million people across the U.S. are at risk of experiencing a heat-related illness today as soaring temperatures in the West begin to expand east over the next few days. [Fox Weather]

In Florida: Gov. Ron DeSantis declared an emergency in five South Florida counties. Some areas saw up to 15 inches of rain in less than a day, causing major flash flooding. Over 600 flights in the region were also canceled or delayed. [CNN/Sun Sentinel]

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

?? Celtics win Game 3

The Celtics beat the Mavericks 106-99 in Game 3 of the NBA Finals. They now lead the series 3-0 and are just one win from claiming a record 18th NBA championship. [Yahoo Sports]

??? Garland held in contempt

The House voted to hold Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt of Congress for refusing to turn over audio of President Biden’s interview in his classified documents case. [AP]

?? Sandy Hook survivors

Survivors of the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Newtown, Conn., graduated from high school on Wednesday night. One student referred to the milestone as a “bittersweet” moment. [Yahoo News]

?? Hunter Biden trial aftermath

According to new polling, 80% of voters said the conviction of President Biden’s son Hunter earlier this week will have no bearing on their vote in November. [Reuters]

?? Hot dog eating rivals

Netflix announced that hot dog eating rivals Joey Chestnut and Takeru Kobayashi will compete live on Sept. 2. The news came a day after Chestnut claimed Nathan’s banned him from its July 4 eating contest. [Today]

WHAT’S HAPPENING TODAY

?? Bridgerton Season 3, Part 2, which has four episodes, premiered overnight on Netflix. (More on that below.) [Variety]

?? Brats, a documentary about the Brat Pack directed by former member Andrew McCarthy, is on Hulu. [Yahoo Entertainment]

?? In the Stanley Cup Final, the Panthers and the Oilers play Game 3 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. The Panthers lead the series 2-0. [NBC Sports]

? In golf, the first day of the U.S. Open airs through 5 p.m. ET on USA Network. [Yahoo Sports]

?? And don’t forget to: Read your daily horoscope. Play the Crossword. Check the forecast in your area.

TODAY IN HISTORY

In 1983, the U.S. space probe Pioneer 10 became the first spacecraft to cross the orbit of Neptune, eventually leaving the solar system. [AP]

3 QUESTIONS

...about Bridgerton

Bridgerton released the final four episodes of Season 3. I talked to Cassie Morris, an entertainment reporter and Bridgerton fan, about the season’s second half.

Lily: What can we expect from Part 2?

Cassie: From what I’ve seen, both the trailer and star Nicola Coughlan teased some spicy developments between Penelope and Colin, especially as her Lady Whistledown secret threatens their budding romance.

Lily: Why do so many women feel like this season is particularly revolutionary?

Cassie: Katie Sturino, a body acceptance advocate, told me that it’s been great seeing a plus-size woman get the main-character treatment. Penelope has blossomed from wallflower to romantic lead.

Lily: Is it just me, or are Queen Charlotte’s wigs getting more elaborate season over season?

Cassie: You’re not imagining things! I just read that actress Golda Rosheuvel’s motorized swan wig in Part 1 took two years to make.

What else is coming in Part 2? Read more of Cassie’s reporting.

FEEL-GOOD MOMENT

Virginia Oliver, the oldest lobster catcher in Maine, turned 104 this month. She began trapping lobsters 96 years ago. When asked if she planned to go lobstering this summer, she said, “Oh, I’m going to go. I’m still the boss.” [People]

Have a great day. See you tomorrow!

?? P.S. Before you go, your daily advice: Want to walk more this summer without the brutal heat? Try mall walking instead. [Yahoo Life]

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