by PHOENIX, Ariz. — The Southwest is preparing for a dangerous stretch of weather as a massive heat wave threatens more than 80 million residents, with extreme heat warnings and advisories stretching from the U.S.-Mexico border to southwest Utah.
Heat Dome Intensifies Over Four Corners
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a powerful ridge of high pressure has settled over the Four Corners region — where Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico meet. This atmospheric setup, often called a “heat dome,” traps descending warm air and bakes everything beneath it.
“An anomalously strong ridge of high pressure centered over the Four Corners states will lead to a significant heat wave,” the NWS stated in its latest discussion.
Cities Under Extreme Heat Warnings
According to NBC News, Beginning Wednesday, extreme heat warnings — which indicate certain danger to health and safety — will take effect for:
- Southern California: including Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County, and Palm Springs
- Nevada: Las Vegas
- Arizona: Phoenix and Tucson
These warnings are expected to remain in place through the weekend.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass warned that the city may experience “potentially some of the hottest temperatures of the summer.” Officials announced that cooling centers will be open, and Gov. Gavin Newsom is mobilizing additional firefighting resources in preparation for wildfire threats.
Tragic Consequences Already Reported
In El Centro, California, a city in the state’s agricultural heartland, temperatures stayed in the triple digits even after sunset. Police confirmed that a child died Monday after being left unattended in a hot vehicle, highlighting the deadly risks posed by the extreme heat.
Read Also: Dangerous Heat Wave Scorches California and the Southwest, Boosting Wildfire Risk
Forecasted Temperatures Across the Region
The peak of the heat wave will push cities to dangerous highs:
- Phoenix, AZ: 112°F by Friday
- Las Vegas, NV: 110°F
- Death Valley, CA: 120°F at Furnace Creek Visitor’s Center
- Seattle, WA: Temperatures climbing into the 90s Saturday
- Portland, OR: Fire weather watch in effect for Thursday
Maricopa County, Arizona, already facing record-breaking heat this summer, reported 44 deaths last week directly linked to extreme heat.
Staying Safe During Extreme Heat
Health officials are urging residents to avoid outdoor activity during peak hours, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable populations such as the elderly and unhoused. Prolonged exposure to triple-digit temperatures can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, conditions that can be fatal if untreated.
How is the heat wave affecting your area? Have you taken steps to stay safe? Share your experiences and precautions in the comments on ibwhsmag.com.
