WEATHER

Historic heat wave in the United States: States that will see record temperatures according to the NWS

The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts that daily high temperature records will be broken this week.

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Update: Mar 17th, 2026 14:37 EDT

The National Weather Service (NWS) is warning that a major heat wave will hit large parts of the United States this week. Temperatures are expected to climb 20 to 30°F above normal, bringing June‑like heat in the middle of March. Some areas could even reach the upper 90s and low 100s.

The agency says dozens of daily high‑temperature records are likely to be tied or broken. According to the NWS, excessive heat alerts and warnings are already in effect across parts of Arizona, California, and Nevada. As the week goes on, the heat is expected to spread eastward and southward.

It is going to get hot this week. 🥵

☀️ Temperatures will soar 20 to 30°F above normal making it feel more like early June than mid-March for many. Dozens of daily high temperatures records are forecast to be broken or tied this week.

🔥Extreme heat warnings and heat… pic.twitter.com/Rpll2FeVsE
— National Weather Service (@NWS) March 16, 2026

“Early‑season extreme heat, combined with heavy tourist activity, will make this heat wave especially dangerous — particularly for people who aren’t acclimated or who are traveling from colder climates,” the NWS said.

The excessive heat warning for northwest Arizona, southeast California, and southern Nevada runs from 2:00 p.m. ET on Wednesday, March 18, through 11:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 22. To check alerts in your area, visit the official National Weather Service website.

How to stay safe during a heat wave

Heat is one of the leading weather‑related causes of death in the United States, responsible for more than 1,000 deaths each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Following safety guidelines is essential to prevent heatstroke.

The NWS recommends the following:

Reduce, avoid, or reschedule strenuous activities for the cooler parts of the day.
Wear lightweight, loose‑fitting, light‑colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight.
Limit direct sun exposure.
Eat light, fresh foods that are easy to digest, such as fruits and salads. Don’t leave food sitting in the sun.
Drink plenty of water and stick to nonalcoholic, decaffeinated beverages.
Use air conditioning or spend time in air‑conditioned spaces.
Use portable electric fans to pull hot air out of rooms or bring cooler air in.
Take a cool bath or shower.
Check on older adults, people with disabilities, those who are ill, children, and pets — all of whom are more vulnerable during extreme heat.

Extreme heat is in the forecast this week. Don’t wait until heat arrives to begin protecting yourself. Begin preparing NOW. https://t.co/vjSkSMMRqB pic.twitter.com/9evA3q1Mrx
— National Weather Service (@NWS) March 16, 2026

What to do if someone shows signs of heatstroke

Symptoms of heatstroke include:

Severe headache
Confusion
Nausea
Dizziness
Body temperature above 103°F
Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
Rapid, strong pulse
Fainting or loss of consciousness

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or your local emergency number.

While waiting for help:

Move the person to a cooler place, ideally somewhere with air conditioning.
Lower their body temperature with cool cloths or a cold bath.

According to the CDC, do not give fluids to someone experiencing heatstroke.

Historic heat wave in the United States: States that will see record temperatures according to the NWS

How to stay safe during a heat wave

What to do if someone shows signs of heatstroke

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