National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Heat the Southwest; Fire Weather in the Central U.S.; Kona Low Impacting Hawaii

A rare March heat wave is ongoing with much above-normal temperatures over the Southwest U.S. through this weekend. Periods of critical fire weather will persist from the central Rockies to the central and southern Plains through the weekend as gusty winds and low relative humidity continue. A Kona low will continue to bring several rounds of moderate to heavy rainfall to Hawaii through Sunday. Read More >

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Last Map Update: Fri, Mar 20, 2026 at 8:26:17 am PDT

Widespread Minor Heat Risk is expected for central California including the San Joaquin Valley and Mojave Desert on Friday and Saturday. This level of risk can result in heat-related illnesses for those extremely sensitive to heat such as older adults (65+), infants, those without effective cooling, and those with chronic diseases.
A rare March heat wave is ongoing, resulting in much above-normal temperatures to the Southwest. New record maximums have been observed across Central California so far, with more heat on the way to round out the week.
Streams and waterways will be rising and running cold and fast this week! As the temperatures become hotter this week, waterways may be inviting. However, the water will flow dangerously fast and cold. It is recommended to stay out of these waterways and streams, as this will cause adverse impacts to even the most experienced swimmers. Also heed instructions from law enforcement.

 

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