Record-breaking heat threatens California and the Southwest, and it’s way earlier than usual. Temperatures have shot way past what people expect for this time of year, setting up to break some old records, and millions are trying to cope with these risky conditions, and it’s not slowing down. Experts are sounding the alarm, calling this surge “anomalously early,” saying the heat will only get worse as the week rolls on, and that it’s a clear sign climate change is ramping things up.

Why Is This Heat Wave So Unusual?

• Timing of the heat wave: Unlike previous years, this heat wave is happening in mid-March as opposed to the summer season.
• Presence of high-pressure dome: A high-pressure dome is building over the West, which is holding in the heat, also referred to as the “lid effect.”
• Record-breaking heat wave: Record-tying and breaking heat is possible in the coming days in Southern California, Arizona, Nevada, and parts of the Great Basin.
• Duration and intensity of the heat wave: According to the National Weather Service, this week’s heat dome may be the strongest ever this early in the season, with no respite in sight through the weekend.

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How Hot Will It Get?

• Southern California: Temperatures will be in the mid- to high-90s this week, with Los Angeles peaking at 98°F on Thursday.
• Arizona: Phoenix will be at 105°F by Thursday, and Tucson will be close to triple digits.
• Nevada: Southern Nevada will be at 107°F later this week, which will be an early-season record.
• Human impact: More than 39 million people are under a heat alert due to increased dangers to children, seniors, and people with pre-existing conditions.

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What Are the Broader Implications of This Heat?

Given the below-average snowpack and widespread droughts, this heat wave is likely impacting the potential availability for water and creating higher risks for wildfires due to early summer-like temperatures being reached. The record-breaking heat, with temperatures being more than 20°F above historical norms, has made the weather feel like early June rather than mid-March.

As record-breaking heat threatens California and the Southwest, it is critical for those living in high humidity and hot weather to keep hydrated, to not do outdoor activities when it is the hottest, and to maintain contact with others who may be in need of assistance during this unprecedented heat event that if continued will have a significant and immediate effect on all areas of health, infrastructure and the environment.

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