The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts an unusually hot and dry spring for a significant portion of the United States in 2026. The forecast suggests that spring could feel more like early summer, with a heat dome expected to cause prolonged high temperatures. The areas most affected include the western U.S., the Plains, and parts of the South and Midwest, all of which are likely to see above-average temperatures and potentially record-breaking heat. The heat dome, characterized by sinking air and clear skies, will amplify the sun's effects, leading to extended periods of extreme heat.