Summer-like Heat Scorches the Southwest

The calendar may say it's only March, but it will feel like summer across the Southwest over the next several days. 

A large ridge of high pressure will continue to strengthen over the Southwestern U.S. and northwestern Mexico through the end of the week into early next week. 

With plenty of sunshine expected each day, temperatures will soar into triple digits in many areas today. In fact, triple-digit heat is expected each of the next several days across portions of southeastern California, southern Nevada, and Arizona where Excessive Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories are in effect. Cities such as Las Vegas and Phoenix are included in these warnings. 

Extreme heat will even spread into portions of California where Extreme Heat Warnings and Advisories have also been issued. This includes San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco. 

Numerous record high temperatures are expected to be challenged or broken today. In Phoenix, the record of 96 degrees set in 1895 is expected to be obliterated with a forecast high near 105 degrees. 

Las Vegas is expected to reach a high of 96 degrees today, which would break the previous record high temperature of 90 degrees set in 1937. 

Los Angeles is expected to see high temperatures near record levels this afternoon. The record at LAX Airport is 87 degrees, which would tie the record set in 1997. Meanwhile, downtown Los Angeles will approach the record of 97 degrees, also set in 1997. 

San Francisco is expected to shatter the daily record of 78 degrees set in 2010 when the temperature reaches an expected high of 86 degrees this afternoon. 

Dozens of more record high temperatures are expected to be challenged on Friday through the weekend across California into the Southwest and even over Texas.

If you must go outdoors, prepare by staying hydrated and keep a watchful eye for any signs of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Wear the right clothing, such as loose-fitting, lightweight and breathable fabrics, and take many breaks within a cool and shaded area.

Make sure to take extra precautions for children and the elderly as they are more susceptible to heat-related illness. Never leave children or animals alone in a locked vehicle as it can become dangerous and potentially fatal. Do not forget to download the WeatherBug app to stay up to date on the latest for this dangerous western heatwave.