California is currently grappling with an intense heat wave that poses a significant threat to its already diminished Sierra Nevada snowpack. The Los Angeles Times reports that the snowpack, which traditionally reaches its peak around April 1, has been receding since February 25. The National Weather Service predicts temperatures will soar 15 to 30 degrees above normal across much of the Southwest, with record-breaking highs anticipated in cities such as Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Fresno, and Phoenix.