An unusually early and intense heat wave is building across the American Southwest, with temperatures expected to reach 105-115°F from Phoenix to Las Vegas through the end of the week.
Forecast
- Phoenix: 112°F Wednesday, 115°F Thursday (record for April if verified)
- Las Vegas: 108°F Wednesday-Friday
- Palm Springs: 110°F peak
- Tucson: 105°F through the weekend
Why This Is Unusual
April heat waves of this magnitude are extremely rare in the historical record. The earliest 115°F reading in Phoenix history was May 26 (2013). Breaking that record by 7 weeks would be remarkable and alarming.
Health Precautions
Limit outdoor activity to early morning hours. Drink water before you feel thirsty. Never leave children or pets in vehicles. Check on elderly neighbors who may not have functioning AC.
Cooling centers will open across Maricopa County and Clark County. The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning effective Wednesday morning through Saturday evening.
