This week, a heat wave that could set new records is expected to raise temperatures to triple digits across the western United States, prompting warnings from officials and the establishment of cooling shelters in the area.

Starting Tuesday and lasting until Friday, millions of residents from southwestern Oregon to California, parts of Arizona, and western Nevada will be under excessive heat alerts.

The National Weather Service indicated on Monday that “Above normal temperatures are anticipated across much of the West Coast, with some daily records likely to be broken.”

According to the local weather service in San Diego, areas like Palm Springs, Palm Desert, and the Coachella Valley could experience temperatures from 112 to 118 degrees from Wednesday to Friday. Nights will offer little respite, with expected lows in the 80s and mid-90s.

In Los Angeles, federal forecasters suggest that temperatures could peak between 95 and 105 degrees from Wednesday to Friday. On Monday, Mayor Karen Bass announced that emergency personnel have been deployed to manage the heat wave and cooling centers are being established throughout the city.

“Those at highest risk for heat-related illnesses include the homeless, elderly, children, and individuals with health conditions,” the weather service in Los Angeles shared on X. “Daytime highs between 95 and 105 will be widespread away from coastal areas.”

Las Vegas could see temperatures climb to 108 degrees, while the Colorado River Valley may reach as high as 115 degrees. Furnace Creek in Death Valley National Park is expected to hit between 116 and 120 degrees this week.

The heat wave’s impact isn’t restricted to the Southwest, however.

In southern Oregon, forecasts predict temperatures between 100 and 105 degrees on Thursday, about 20 degrees higher than normal for this time of year. Portland may also see highs near 100 degrees on Friday. The weather service in San Francisco expects temperatures to range from the mid-90s to around 107 degrees on Wednesday and Thursday.

Residents are urged to stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned spaces, and avoid sun exposure. Crucially, individuals are cautioned against leaving children or pets in parked vehicles, as car interiors can reach deadly temperatures in minutes, according to the weather service.

Heat Waves Are Common in the Southwest During This Season

This upcoming wave of intense heat is typical for southern California, western Nevada, and southern Arizona during this season, according to Heather Zehr, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather.

“September is generally hot for this region, with temperatures peaking by the end of August and start of September due to its relatively dry climate,” she explained.

Zehr noted that this heat wave is expected to be less extreme than a previous one in July that set records, where Phoenix reached 118 degrees, Las Vegas experienced 120 degrees, and Palm Springs hit 124 degrees. This week, temperatures in those areas are projected to be several degrees cooler than in July.

The Northwest does not share the same trend.

According to Zehr, southern Oregon typically begins to cool at the onset of fall, with Arctic air masses affecting the area. However, the current heat wave may challenge daily temperature records across the Willamette Valley, including cities like Portland and Medford, with forecasts expecting highs around 105 degrees.

“This situation is somewhat unusual for them,” Zehr commented regarding the heat wave affecting southern Oregon.

Contributions by: Doyle Rice, YSL News