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hatrack

(59,439 posts)
Fri Jun 11, 2021, 07:27 AM Jun 2021

Much Of CA, AZ, NV Facing Temps Up to 20F Above Normal Week Of 6/13; 120+ Likely At Multiple Sites

https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-apps/imrs.php?src=&w=916
The American GFS model simulates departure from average temperatures next week, revealing widespread significant warmth in the western United States. (WeatherBell)

The first extreme heat wave of the year is set to sizzle in the Southwest next week, with temperatures topping 120 degrees in spots. Excessive heat watches and warnings already blanket portions of Arizona, California and Nevada. The heat wave, predicted to last many days, will only intensify record-setting drought conditions plaguing many locations in the West. Temperatures at least 20 degrees above average are possible for several days next week, and could persist even longer. Conditions this hot are “rare, dangerous and deadly,” wrote the National Weather Service in Phoenix. The exceptional temperatures will bolster wildfire risk and exacerbate the potential for a long and significant fire season in the West as the heat saps more moisture from the ground.

Instigating the blazing temperatures is a ridge of high pressure currently centered over West Texas and Chihuahua, Mexico. The “heat dome” will become established over the southwestern United States, bringing sinking air and high temperatures. That sinking air will erode cloud cover, allowing more sunshine to pour in and heat the ground further. The setup will also divert the jet stream well to the north, steering any inclement weather into the northern Intermountain West and Canada as much of the West bakes.

Temperatures are expected to climb by a few degrees per day through early next week, when triple-digit numbers will become widespread. In Phoenix, where the average temperature in mid-June is about 106 degrees, the week will end near normal — before Saturday climbs to 110 degrees, Sunday to 113 and Monday to 115 degrees. By the middle of next week, the nation’s hottest large city could see multiple days at or above 116 degrees. That means Monday could tie a record, and Tuesday and Wednesday may break records if highs top 115 degrees.

Equally problematic will be the overnight lows, which by the middle of next week may not dip much below 90. That poses a grave danger to anyone without air conditioning, particularly the homeless and other vulnerable groups, whose bodies won’t be able to cool off at night.

EDIT

https://www.washingtonpost.com/weather/2021/06/10/record-heat-wave-southwest/
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Much Of CA, AZ, NV Facing Temps Up to 20F Above Normal Week Of 6/13; 120+ Likely At Multiple Sites (Original Post) hatrack Jun 2021 OP
Calling all MAGAT arsonists: California fire season has now begun. NBachers Jun 2021 #1
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