Record-Breaking Heat Hits Desert Southwest and Expands East

(Phoenix, Arizona) Record-breaking heat is gripping parts of the desert Southwest as temperatures soar into the 100s, with some areas expecting highs reaching 115 degrees this weekend. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued extreme heat warnings for regions including Palm Springs, California; Phoenix; and Tucson, Arizona.

These warnings signal dangerously high temperatures, prompting advisories that extend beyond the Southwest into the Heartland. Heat advisories are in effect for Albuquerque, New Mexico; Dallas, El Paso, and Amarillo, Texas; Oklahoma City; Wichita, Kansas; Denver; and Sioux City, Iowa. Forecasters predict temperatures could rise between 100 and 110 degrees in these areas on Friday.

On Thursday, Phoenix experienced a high of 118 degrees, marking it as the hottest temperature recorded for August and tying it for the ninth-hottest day on record since 1895. The NWS cautioned that conditions could be ripe for heat-related illnesses, especially affecting vulnerable populations like older adults and children.

The extreme temperatures come alongside critical fire weather warnings across five states, including Oregon, Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, and New Mexico. These areas are facing dry conditions and wind gusts between 35 to 55 mph, increasing the risk of rapid fire spread.

Forecasts suggest that while the extreme heat may lessen for the desert Southwest this weekend, it will return next week, potentially affecting parts of northwest California, western Oregon, and southwest Washington. High temperatures in cities like Yreka, California, and Portland, Oregon, may also reach the 100s, with low temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees.

The NWS advises residents to take precautions during the heat, emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated, wearing lightweight clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Critical fire weather conditions are expected to persist through at least Saturday, leaving communities on high alert.