LAS VEGAS, NV — A blistering heat wave is still hammering much of the western United States, with forecasters warning that several cities could see record or near-record temperatures.
The National Weather Service says a strong high-pressure system, often called a heat dome, is trapping hot air and limiting overnight cooling, adding to the danger for anyone without reliable air conditioning.
What temperatures are being forecast now
Some of the most intense heat is expected in the Desert Southwest and parts of California.
- Las Vegas, Nevada: around 115 degrees
- Phoenix, Arizona: around 116 degrees
- El Centro, California: around 118 degrees
- Death Valley National Park, California: temperatures could top 120 degrees
- St. George, Utah: above 110 degrees
- Great Falls, Montana: around 104 degrees
Officials say overnight lows will stay unusually warm in many places, which raises the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Wildfire danger is rising across several states
The same hot, dry pattern is also making wildfire conditions worse across northern and central California, southern Oregon, eastern Washington and parts of Idaho.
The National Weather Service has posted Red Flag Warnings in several fire-prone areas. Those warnings mean any new fire could spread quickly if winds pick up…