- This summer has seen multiple heat domes affect the US and Europe, and studies show human-caused climate change is making heat waves like this one more likely, more intense and longer-lasting.
- Dozens of record highs are likely to be set this weekend from California to Montana; triple-digit heat could reach 118 degrees in Phoenix, 115 in Las Vegas, and mid-90s in downtown Los Angeles.
- About 55 million people are under heat alerts on Saturday, mostly in portions of California, Nevada and Arizona and stretching north to the Canadian border.
- The National Weather Service (NWS) warned that 'major' to 'extreme' heat risk will be widespread in Phoenix, and Los Angeles was under an extreme heat warning through Sunday.
- A rare, level 3 of 3 'extremely critical' fire danger is in place for portions of Washington and Oregon on Saturday, with multiple large wildfires already burning and smoke affecting multiple states and Canada.
- Heat could be deadly, particularly to those without cooling access, and high temperatures can increase the likelihood of heat-related illness.
A heat dome is currently affecting the Western U.S., with 55 million people under heat alerts as temperatures soar. Forecasts predict highs of 118 degrees in Phoenix and 115 degrees in Las Vegas, with record-breaking temperatures expected from California to Montana.67
The National Weather Service warns of a “major” to “extreme” heat risk in Phoenix, indicating a significant threat to public health. The extreme heat can lead to heat-related illnesses, especially for those without access to cooling.
This summer has seen multiple heat domes across the U.S. and Europe, exacerbated by human-caused climate change, which is making such heat waves more likely and intense. In addition to the heat, a rare level 3 of 3 “extremely critical” fire danger is in effect for parts of Washington and Oregon, where multiple large wildfires are already burning. High winds and drought conditions pose a risk of rapid fire spread, affecting air quality across several states and Canada.12
As temperatures remain dangerously high, the potential for heat-related health issues and wildfire spread continues to escalate, highlighting the urgent need for public awareness and safety measures.
“Forecast highs could reach 118 degrees in Phoenix and 115 in Las Vegas, with dozens of record highs likely from California to Montana. NWS warns of widespread 'major' to 'extreme' heat risk in Phoenix, where heat could prove deadly for those without cooling access.”
