LAS VEGAS, NV – Las Vegas, Nevada, is bracing for another week of scorching temperatures as a heat dome settles over the Southwest, bringing triple-digit highs to the region. This extreme heat is expected to affect millions of people in the Southwest and parts of California, with temperatures reaching up to 15 degrees above normal in some areas. The National Weather Service has issued heat alerts for these regions through Thursday, warning of potential record-breaking temperatures.
In Phoenix, Arizona, an excessive heat warning has been issued for the metro area, along with parts of south-central and northwest Arizona, where temperatures could soar to 111 F or higher. Last week, Phoenix experienced its first 110 F day of the year, setting a record high of 113 F. Similarly, Las Vegas is predicted to see dangerously hot conditions, with temperatures expected to reach as high as 111 F.
The heatwave is not limited to just Arizona and Nevada, as other states such as New Mexico are also feeling the effects. Albuquerque, where the normal high for this time of year is 89 F, tied a record high of 100 F last Friday. The widespread heat is expected to spread eastward by the end of the week, impacting parts of the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast. Record highs are likely across central Virginia and western North Carolina.
As some states face scorching temperatures, others will experience thunderstorms and potential flash flooding. Florida, in particular, is at risk for heavy rainfall, with some areas expecting up to 10 inches of rain. Tropical moisture combined with a stalled storm system could lead to flash flood issues in cities like Naples, Fort Myers, and Miami. Severe storms are also a possibility in parts of Wyoming, South Dakota, and Nebraska, with the potential for hail, high winds, and even tornados.
By Wednesday, severe storms are projected to hit eastern South Dakota, Minnesota, and western Wisconsin. Cities like Minneapolis and Sioux Falls will need to be prepared for all types of severe weather hazards. Overall, the week ahead looks to be a challenging one weather-wise for many regions across the United States.
