The National Weather Service has issued excessive heat warnings for parts of southern Utah due to a “heat dome” setting up over the West. Temperatures in St. George are projected to reach 110 degrees or higher, potentially breaking the state’s record of 117 degrees. This heat wave is caused by a high-pressure system over California creating a heat dome, which is pushing hot air without much moisture into the region. Excessive heat warnings are in place throughout California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Idaho, and Nevada. Temperatures in Death Valley National Park may reach 129 degrees, nearing the highest “reliably measured temperature” of 130 degrees ever recorded on Earth. In Utah, the high-pressure system is expected to bring triple-digit temperatures to the southern part of the state, while cooler winds from Canada will keep the northern half relatively cooler. However, temperatures are still expected to rise significantly in the Wasatch Front and Salt Lake Valley next week. Meteorologists believe the all-time high temperature in Utah may not be broken due to slightly higher soil moisture levels compared to the previous year. Relief from the heat wave may come with potential monsoon-like patterns that could bring wetter conditions to Utah in the following weeks. There are full seven-day forecasts available online at the KSL Weather Center for those looking to track the weather in Utah.
Source
Photo credit www.eastidahonews.com
