Gigantic 'Heat Dome' Baking The Whole US May Be Historic, Scientists Say

Key Points:

• A massive heat dome that shattered March heat records in 14 states is moving eastward, potentially becoming one of the largest heat waves in U.S. history, with the heat persisting possibly until mid-next week.
• Meteorologists report that the heat dome is causing prolonged record-breaking temperatures, such as Flagstaff, Arizona experiencing 11-12 consecutive days above previous March records, and up to one-third of the continental U.S. nearing March heat records.
• The affected area is larger than recent historic heat waves in 2012 and 2021 but is less intense than the Dust Bowl heat waves of 1936; however, the current heat wave is notable for its breadth and persistence.
• Climate scientists attribute the extreme heat to climate change, stating it is "virtually impossible" without it, with human activities adding at least 2.6 degrees Celsius to the temperatures, according to a report by World Weather Attribution.
• The heat dome is expected to dissipate by late next week as the jet stream resumes normal movement, ending the widespread high temperatures currently impacting much of the U.S.