Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Martinez Lake Hits 110°F: Arizona Faces Extreme Heat

3/20/2026

50 8 Full Breakdown

Center

Arizona Heat Wave

Martinez Lake reached 110 degrees, the highest March temperature recorded in the United States.
The National Weather Service issued extreme heat warnings for southern Arizona.
The National Weather Service urged residents to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities.
The University of Arizona's Wildcats, coached by Tommy Lloyd, lead nationally in freshman scoring this season.

Left

Phoenix Trail Closures

Phoenix closed popular hiking trails from March 19 to March 22 due to an unusual heat wave forecast to exceed 100 degrees.
The closures affect Echo Canyon, Cholla, and Piestewa Peak Summit Trail.
City officials closed trails to improve safety, as rescues have fallen from 57 in 2021 to 35 in 2024, while over 200 hikers are rescued annually.
Over 100 miles of South Mountain trails remain open.

1 of 2

Arizona Heat Wave

Martinez Lake reached 110 degrees, the highest March temperature recorded in the United States.
The National Weather Service issued extreme heat warnings for southern Arizona.
The National Weather Service urged residents to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities.
The University of Arizona's Wildcats, coached by Tommy Lloyd, lead nationally in freshman scoring this season.

1 / 2