Phoenix, Arizona — A powerful heat wave is spreading across the United States this week, bringing record-breaking temperatures, widespread 90-degree heat, and unusually warm conditions from the Pacific Coast to the East Coast.
Meteorologists say the slow-moving weather pattern could impact millions of people over the coming days as dangerous heat shifts eastward across the country.
Heat Wave Expanding Across the Nation
Forecasters say the unusual warmth is being driven by a large zone of sinking air and high pressure slowly moving east from the Rockies toward the Atlantic coast.
This weather setup creates clear skies and allows temperatures to climb rapidly, especially in areas south of the jet stream.
Experts explained that the high-pressure system is pushing the jet stream farther north, allowing warmer air to dominate much of the United States throughout the week.
As a result, many communities are expected to experience sunny but significantly hotter-than-normal conditions.
Record Temperatures Already Being Set
Several cities across the western U.S. have already seen record-breaking temperatures in recent days.
On Mother’s Day, Reno, Nevada, reached its first 90-degree temperatures of the year, setting a new daily record high of 92 degrees.
Meanwhile, Death Valley tied its daily record with a scorching 112 degrees, while Thermal, California, climbed to 108 degrees, matching a previous record set in 2025.
The heat continued Monday with Las Vegas reaching 104 degrees, setting another daily temperature record.
Other cities also experienced unusually high temperatures, including:
- Salt Lake City — 92 degrees
- Reno — 92 degrees
- Casper, Wyoming — 85 degrees
Even northern states such as Montana and North Dakota are expected to experience unusually hot weather this week.
Heat Shifting Toward Central and Eastern U.S.
By late week and into the weekend, the heat wave is forecast to spread farther east, bringing major temperature swings to parts of the Plains, Midwest, and East Coast.
Forecasters say some areas in the Northeast could see temperatures rise by as much as 30 degrees between Wednesday and next Monday.
The central and southern Plains may also face intense heat, with temperatures climbing into the 90s as far north as Nebraska.
Cities including Omaha, Kansas City, and Wichita could challenge or break daily temperature records during the weekend.
Eventually, much of the eastern United States is expected to see widespread temperatures in the 80s, creating unusually warm conditions for this time of year.
Some Relief Expected in Western States
While much of the country heats up, some western regions may finally experience cooler conditions later this week.
Meteorologists forecast significantly lower temperatures moving into the Northwest, Northern Rockies, and Northern Plains.
In Salt Lake City, highs are expected to fall back into the 70s by Thursday, offering relief after days of extreme warmth.
The cooling trend could also slightly reduce temperatures across the Southwest, though conditions will remain hot overall.
Forecasts still call for highs in the mid-to-upper 90s in Las Vegas and low 100s in Phoenix later this week.
Experts Urge Caution During Extreme Heat
Weather officials are encouraging residents to take precautions during the heat wave, especially in areas where temperatures are expected to break records.
Dangerous Storms to Slam East and Midwest With Damaging Winds This Week
High temperatures combined with dry conditions can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, dehydration, and wildfire concerns in some western states.
People are advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, and check on vulnerable family members and pets.
As the heat wave continues shifting eastward, millions across the country could experience several days of unusually hot and potentially dangerous weather.
Are temperatures unusually high where you live right now? Share your weather conditions in the comments below.
