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US Sizzles as Heat Dome Shatters Records
31 Jul
Summary
- July 2026 is on track to be the hottest month on record.
- Overnight temperatures in Death Valley could remain near 100 degrees.
- Critical wildfire risks are building across the western United States.
July 2026 is set to become the warmest month recorded in the contiguous United States, surpassing the previous record from July 2012. National temperatures are currently about 2.5 degrees above average.
A potent heat dome is presently subjecting the Southwest and Intermountain West to record-breaking temperatures. Critical fire weather conditions are intensifying across areas from eastern Oregon and Washington to Montana and Wyoming.
Extreme overnight heat is a significant concern, with temperatures in Death Valley forecast to remain near 100 degrees, while Phoenix and Las Vegas will experience lows in the lower 90s. This prolonged heat, combined with high humidity in some areas, amplifies health risks.
In addition to record heat, the wildfire risk is substantial. Eastern Washington faces an "extremely critical risk" for fire weather on Saturday, signaling the potential for rapid fire growth. Smoke from ongoing wildfires has already spread across the country.
