Hot weather blankets eastern U.S.

WASHINGTON, June 7 (UPI) -- Temperatures in the 90s blanketed the mid-Atlantic and New England states Saturday, with humidity and air pollution making the heat more uncomfortable.

In Washington, at least 32 runners in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure were treated for heat stroke, The Washington Post reported. Water pressure in the District's Southeast neighborhood dropped because of open fire hydrants.

The temperature at Reagan National Airport topped out at 98 degrees shortly after 1 p.m. Saturday, tying a record set in 1999.

Richmond, Va., endured record heat of 100 degrees, the Richmond Times-Dispatch said. In Boston, the temperature was expected to hit 90.

Thousands of people lost power in the Washington area because of thunderstorms. In many other areas there was no relief from the baking heat.

In Philadelphia, residents were warned to avoid strenuous exercise during the middle of the day because of high ozone levels.