L.A. and Las Vegas brace for extreme heat this week
- An excessive heat warning has been issued for much of the Southwest, including major cities like Los Angeles and Las Vegas, lasting until Friday night.
- Temperatures in Los Angeles are expected to exceed 100 degrees, with a 20% chance of reaching 115 degrees in parts of the San Fernando Valley on Thursday.
- This heat wave is part of a trend of above-average summer temperatures in the region, raising concerns about heat-related health impacts.
The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for much of the Southwest, including Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Phoenix, as a significant heat wave is set to impact the region. This warning is in effect until Friday night, with Thursday anticipated to be the hottest day of the week. In Los Angeles, temperatures are projected to surpass 100 degrees, particularly in the San Fernando Valley, where there is a notable chance of reaching 115 degrees. Las Vegas is also bracing for extreme heat, with high temperatures expected to hit around 106 degrees on the Strip, while Death Valley could see temperatures soar to 120 degrees. The National Weather Service has indicated that the highest risk of heat-related health issues will occur on Thursday, with many areas facing major or extreme heat risks. This heat wave coincides with earlier forecasts predicting above-average temperatures for the summer across various regions, including the Southwest. The summer has already seen record-breaking temperatures, with Las Vegas experiencing its hottest summer on record, averaging 96.2 degrees. As the Southwest endures this heat wave, the East Coast is experiencing normal or below-average temperatures, highlighting the stark contrast in weather patterns across the country. The ongoing extreme heat raises concerns about public health and safety as residents cope with the scorching conditions.