Southwest US Faces Record-Breaking March Heatwave
California, Nevada, and Arizona are experiencing unprecedented heat as temperatures soar to record highs at the end of winter, with forecasts predicting even hotter conditions in the coming days.
On Thursday, these states were placed under heat warnings amid the extreme temperature surge.
California's Unusual March Heat
In California, the National Weather Service (NWS) reported that the Los Angeles area is encountering
“extremely rare heat for March”, cautioning residents about a significant risk of heat-related illnesses. Palm Springs, located approximately 100 miles east of Los Angeles, is projected to reach a high of 108°F on Thursday. Heat alerts are expected to remain active through Sunday.
The NWS Los Angeles heat advisory stated,
“Temperatures are 25-35 degrees above normal,”and added,
“Many daily records will be shattered.”
Already on Tuesday, several daily heat records were broken across more than a dozen locations in Los Angeles, according to the NWS.
While the heat is less intense in Northern California, San Francisco is facing a moderate heat risk, which is two levels below the designation of “extreme.”
Record Warmth in Nevada and Arizona
In Reno, Nevada, the week has brought record-setting warmth with temperatures expected to peak on Friday. Las Vegas set a March record on Wednesday.
The NWS Las Vegas office commented on Thursday,
“Daily and monthly temperature records continue to be rewritten as this historic March heatwave persists into next week.”
Phoenix, Arizona, was under an extreme heat warning on Thursday, with afternoon temperatures anticipated to reach 105°F. The weather service provided context, stating,
“For some perspective, the average first 105° day of the year normally occurs on May 22nd.”
The NWS Phoenix office further noted,
“Daily records will be broken each day through Sunday and by as much as 10 degrees,”with the highest temperatures expected on Friday.
Temperatures are forecasted to decline next week, with Los Angeles temperatures dropping to the low-to-mid 80s Fahrenheit.
Heat Impacts on National Parks and Outdoor Activities
Several western national parks have issued advisories urging visitors to check weather forecasts before venturing outdoors. At White Sands National Park in New Mexico, temperatures could reach the mid-90s Fahrenheit (approximately 35°C). Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is under an extreme heat warning, with temperatures potentially hitting 104°F (40°C) in certain areas.
Park officials have advised hikers to avoid strenuous activities during the hottest hours of the day, identified as 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Due to the heatwave, hiking trails at Lake Mead National Recreation Area have been closed, according to statements from the National Park Service.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
