Record-Challenging Heat Dome to Scorch Western U.S. This Weekend
An intense heat dome is set to bring record-breaking temperatures to the western United States this weekend, affecting tens of millions of residents from California to the northern Rockies and Plains. Temperatures are expected to soar 10–20°F (5.5–11°C) above seasonal averages, with Death Valley, California, forecasted to reach a blistering 126°F (52.2°C). Over 40 million people are under heat alerts, with 12 million facing 'extreme' heat risk and another 12 million under 'major' heat risk. Cities like Billings, Montana, and Salt Lake City, Utah, may break August temperature records, while Phoenix and Las Vegas are expected to exceed 110°F (43.3°C). The heat dome, which traps hot air beneath it, is unusually strong and slow-moving, potentially prolonging the extreme conditions into early August.