A potentially record-setting heat wave is expected to drive temperatures across the western U.S. into the triple digits as it builds this week, triggering warnings from officials as authorities set up cooling shelters throughout the region.
Millions of people from southwestern Oregon through California, parts of Arizona and western Nevada will be under excessive heat warnings Tuesday through Friday.
“Above average temperatures are forecast to span much of the West Coast, including the potential for a few daily records,” the National Weather Service said in a statement on Monday.
The weather service office in San Diego warned that temperatures in Palms Springs, Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley could reach 112 to 118 degrees Wednesday through Friday. The night won’t bring much relief with temperatures forecast in the 80s and mid-90s.
In Los Angeles, federal forecasters projected peak temperatures of 95 to 105 from Wednesday through Friday, according to the local weather service . On Monday, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said she deployed emergency personnel to prepare for the heat wave and that authorities have begun setting up cooling centers around the city.