Record-Breaking Heat Persists in Mountain West Region
Record-Breaking Heat Persists in Mountain West Region
US · Published Mar 15, 2026
The Mountain West is experiencing record-breaking winter heat, ranking as the second warmest in 131 years.
Forecasts predict historic heat levels in cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix, with temperatures potentially reaching 100°F (38°C).
The early heatwave raises concerns about water supplies, wildfire risk, and public health across the region.
Record warmth in Mountain West this winter
The Mountain West region is facing unprecedented heat levels, with this winter being recorded as the second warmest in 131 years, according to federal scientists. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has reported that areas including Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico experienced significantly above-average temperatures in February, with some areas hitting all-time highs. This warming trend is expected to continue into spring, potentially bringing historic heat to cities such as Las Vegas and Phoenix, where temperatures could reach around 100°F (38°C), leading to an early onset of extreme heat events.
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