Los Angeles, California – A large-scale heat surge is set to expand across more than 35 states by Friday afternoon, pushing temperatures 10 to 20 degrees above normal and increasing heat-related risks across much of the western and central U.S.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, the 6-to-10 day outlook shows a high probability—up to 80 to 90 percent—of above-normal temperatures from Southern California through Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and into Colorado and New Mexico through early next week. This ridge of heat will stretch eastward into Texas, the Southeast, and parts of the Midwest.
In California, inland areas including Riverside, San Bernardino, and the Central Valley could see afternoon highs surge into the 90s by Saturday, with desert regions nearing or exceeding 100 degrees. Energy demand may climb quickly, especially during peak afternoon hours, raising the risk of localized outages.
The heat dome expands north into Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana while also pushing into Iowa, Missouri, and Georgia. Cities like Phoenix, Las Vegas, Denver, Dallas, and Atlanta are all expected to experience sustained above-normal warmth. Meanwhile, a narrow corridor from the Ohio Valley into parts of the Great Lakes may remain closer to seasonal averages.
At the same time, increased moisture and instability will trigger scattered showers and thunderstorms from the Midwest into the southern Plains. States including Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas could see brief downpours and lightning, particularly during late afternoon and evening hours.
The Northeast and New England stand out as cooler zones, with below-normal temperatures likely in cities such as Boston, New York City, and Buffalo through the same period.
Residents across the Southwest should limit outdoor activity during peak heat, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Additional advisories may be issued as the heat intensifies into the weekend and persists into early next week.
