National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Dangerous Heat over the South-Central and Southwest U.S. Through Next Week

Dangerous heat persists across the Desert Southwest through this weekend and across the Southern Plains and Lower Mississippi Valley through at least the middle of next week. Numerous daily record high temperatures are expected through at least Tuesday for much of Texas and Oklahoma as well as portions of Louisiana, New Mexico, and Arizona. Read More >

Click a location below for detailed forecast.

Last Map Update: Fri, Aug 21, 2026 at 3:32:42 pm PDT

After 100 plus-degree heat took hold over central California the last few weeks, more seasonable temperatures have been seen this week. Widespread Minor Heat Risk will continue with patches of Moderate Heat Risk, which is heat tolerated by most of the population, but can cause heat-related illnesses from those extremely sensitive to heat such as older adults (65+), infants, those without effective cooling, and those with chronic diseases (heart disease, obesity, poor blood circulation) to those who may overexert themselves with outdoor activities. Heat Risk will slowly rise to more widespread Moderate Heat Risk on Sunday before temperatures stabilize next week.
Thunderstorm chances are still lingering in the Sierra Nevada Crest today. There is a 10 to almost 20% chance for thunderstorms on Saturday. While Thunderstorms will linger into Sunday, those chances will go down to near 5% for elevations above 4,000 feet. Remember that when thunder roars, go indoors!

 

Text Product Selector (Selected product opens in current window)