States including California, Nevada, Arizona, Texas, Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois are expected to see conditions more typical of summer. Some areas could experience temperatures up to 30 degrees above normal for late March.
The heat is being caused by a “heat dome,” where high pressure traps hot air near the ground and prevents cooler conditions from developing. Parts of Texas and Nevada could reach or pass 100°F, while the Midwest may see temperatures in the 80s.
Officials have also warned about higher wildfire risk because of the heat and dry conditions. With records already being broken in dozens of cities, people are urged to stay hydrated, avoid extreme heat when possible, and follow local weather alerts.
