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Western U.S. heat wave brings record temps, wildfire evacuations
Los Angeles Times • • nation
Key Points:
- A severe heat wave hit the Western U.S. on Saturday, with Southern California under extreme heat warnings and record temperatures recorded in the Southwest and Montana.
- Phoenix tied its record high of 116 degrees for August 1, while Las Vegas, El Centro, Great Falls, and Helena approached or exceeded daily temperature records.
- The Pacific Northwest faced a rare "Particularly Dangerous Situation" wildfire warning due to dry conditions and strong winds, with the Old Trails fire in Spokane prompting evacuations.
- Officials urged residents to watch for heat-related illnesses and recommended limiting outdoor activities, staying in air-conditioned spaces, and never leaving pets or children unattended in vehicles.
- The heat wave is driven by a high-pressure system that increases temperatures and suppresses cooling sea breezes, with humid tropical air contributing to elevated overnight lows; the heat is expected to ease by early next week.
