Summer-Like Heat Bakes the Southern U.S.
The “official” start to spring was just a few days ago, but temperatures will make it feel more like summer throughout the Southern U.S. today. This heatwave continues into the work week across the Southwest.
Expansive high pressure will be settled over the Southern Tier into much of the Eastern U.S. for the conclusion of the weekend. This high pressure will then gradually shift westward on Monday, allowing it to strengthen over the Western U.S. High pressure will remain centered over the West through midweek, before shifting back into the Southeast for the second half of the week. Unseasonably warm air will be pumped into this high pressure system.
Today’s high temperatures will be as much as 25 to 35 degrees above normal from California and the Southwest into the South-Central U.S., Tennessee and Ohio valleys and Mid-Atlantic. Temperatures across these areas will likely peak in the 80s and 90s for most areas. However, the Desert Southwest and most of Texas will see the mercury climb into the 100s. Thankfully, humidity across the Eastern U.S. will not be a major concern, so heat index values will not be an issue.
Much of the Southwestern U.S. will be at risk for record-breaking temperatures today. Las Vegas is forecast to reach 93 degrees, likely breaking its record high of 91 degrees set in 2004. Palm Springs, Calif., will likely see a high of 100 degrees, exceeding its record of 96 also set in 2004. Sacramento, Calif., is expected to reach 86 degrees, beating the record of 84 set in 2022. Phoenix will have a high near 101 degrees, which will break its record of 94 degrees set in 1990.
Due to the heat’s rarity for the time of year and the dangerous temperatures expected, Excessive Heat Warnings are posted in portions of southeastern California, southern and western Arizona, and southern Nevada.
Parts of the South-Central and Eastern U.S. could also come close to or exceed its record high temperatures for the day. Dallas is forecast to have a high of 93 degrees today, which would tie its record set in 1995. St. Louis is set to reach 90 degrees today, exceeding its record high of 88 degrees that occurred in 1907. Cincinnati could fall just short of the record high of 85 degrees set in 1907, with a forecast high of 84 degrees. Raleigh, N.C., will see a high of 90 degrees today, beating the record of 89 degrees in 1907.
High temperatures will remain in the 80s and 90s across California into the Southwest for the first half of the work week, with a few spots in southern California and southwestern Arizona will see the mercury top out in triple digits.
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.