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Historic Heat Wave Hits Western U.S., Sparks Warnings

3/18/2026

49 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A historic heat wave sweeps the Western United States this March, with temperatures reaching unprecedented levels.
Phoenix is forecast to hit 106 degrees, signaling extreme heat across the region.
The National Weather Service has issued extreme heat warnings for California to Texas, affecting millions.
The heat threatens snowpack in the Sierra Nevada, raising concerns about water supply and future wildfire risk.

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Story summary

A historic heat wave sweeps the Western United States this March, with temperatures reaching unprecedented levels.
Phoenix is forecast to hit 106 degrees, signaling extreme heat across the region.
The National Weather Service has issued extreme heat warnings for California to Texas, affecting millions.
The heat threatens snowpack in the Sierra Nevada, raising concerns about water supply and future wildfire risk.