Early Spring Heat Wave in the Southwest U.S.; Critical Fire Weather in the Central Rockies and Plains

An unusual early Spring heat wave will continue much above-normal temperatures over the Southwest U.S. through early next week. Many locations are likely to set records for the highest-ever March temperature. Periods of critical fire weather will persist from the central Rockies to the central Plains through Saturday as gusty winds and low relative humidity continue. Read More >

Click a location below for detailed forecast.

Last Map Update: Thu, Mar 19, 2026 at 9:16:45 am PDT

Watches, Warnings & Advisories

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National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area, CA

National Weather Service San Joaquin Valley, CA

Extreme Heat Warning

Gale Warning

Red Flag Warning

Heat Advisory

Small Craft Advisory

Record Warming

Record Warmth This Week

Reno-Tahoe New Record

South Lake Tahoe New Record

In the mood to smash some records? These afternoon high temperatures are more reminiscent of summertime. With that, lakes and rivers will look appetizing to cool off in but try to refrain as they'll be running fast and cold from snowmelt.

Strong high pressure will make this week feel more like early June than mid-March with record-breaking temperatures likely. Be sure to stay hydrated and avoid area waterways, which will be running fast and cold!

Our afternoon high temperature record at Reno-Tahoe International Airport for March was broken today at 3:43 PM today, with a temperature of 86°F. This also breaks the all-time hottest day on record for March. The previous monthly record occurred on March 31st, 1966 at 83°F. This is the earliest date we have reached 86°F at this site on record. Since 1893, Reno has reached 80° in March 11 times.

Our afternoon high temperature record at South Lake Tahoe Airport for March was broken today at 2:42 PM today, with a temperature of 76°F. This also breaks the all-time hottest day on record for March. The previous monthly record occurred on March 30th, 2015 at 71°F. This is the earliest date we have reached 76°F at this site on record.