Key moments
A record-shattering heat wave is currently affecting the Southwest U.S., with AccuWeather reporting that a heat dome is causing temperatures to soar. Cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Phoenix are expected to experience unprecedented warmth this week, with many locations seeing temperatures climb into the 90s and even past 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
In Los Angeles, the all-time March record high of 99 degrees, set on March 29, 1879, may be challenged as the city braces for extreme heat. Las Vegas is forecasted to reach 90 degrees or higher from Tuesday through the following Monday, with a potential record if the city hits 100 degrees on Friday, which would surpass its earliest 100-degree reading that occurred on March 26, 1988.
AccuWeather projects that Phoenix could see highs near 106 degrees from Thursday through Saturday, marking a significant deviation from the historical average high temperature for mid-March in the area. This heat wave is expected to affect approximately 70 million people across the region, with temperatures running 20-30 degrees above average.
Other cities, including Salt Lake City and Albuquerque, may also challenge or break record highs from Tuesday through Saturday. Denver is likely to see daily records fall later this week into the weekend, while San Francisco is expected to reach the lower 80s, breaking previous records.
Despite the extreme heat, the wildfire danger remains relatively low due to light winds in most areas. However, spring water safety is a concern, particularly in Southern California beaches and streams, where cold water temperatures pose risks.
Looking ahead, AccuWeather’s tornado outlook for spring 2026 predicts between 1,050 to 1,250 tornadoes across the U.S., which is slightly below the historical average of 1,225. Peak tornado season in Louisiana lasts from March through May, raising concerns about storm winds that can knock down trees and power lines, as well as hail that can cause significant property damage.
As residents prepare for the heat wave, officials are urging caution and awareness of the potential health impacts associated with extreme temperatures. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the heat wave’s effects, but the situation is being closely monitored.
