Historic March heatwave pushes south-west US toward triple digits

The Guardian US News
by Coral Murphy Marcos in Oakland, and agency
March 19, 2026
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2 min read

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California, Nevada, and Arizona face record-breaking temperatures in March with heat warnings in effect.

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California, Nevada, and Arizona are experiencing record-breaking temperatures as a historic March heatwave pushes the southwestern U.S. toward triple digits. Heat warnings were in effect Thursday across all three states, with forecasts predicting even hotter conditions ahead. The extreme temperatures have prompted park trail closures and widespread heat alerts as residents face unseasonably dangerous conditions late in winter. March heatwaves in this region are unusual, making this event significant for public health and wildfire risk as spring approaches.

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