A major and likely historic heat wave will scorch the western United States next week.
The far-reaching mountain ridge responsible for the temperature increase will extend into parts of western Canada with above-average readings.
All-time monthly heat records are in danger of falling, including the highest temperature ever recorded in the United States in March.
DON’T MISS: A strong El Niño may develop this summer
Extreme high pressure comb creates extreme heat
A significant ridge of high pressure will form over the western United States next week. This high pressure area could be among the strongest ever observed early in the year.
Atmospheric pattern on Thursday
Ridges high in the atmosphere are responsible for above-seasonal temperatures because they force the air to sink, warming and drying out as it sinks toward the ground.
We will see the heart of this ridge peak in two acts, initially gaining strength over Southern California early in the week before moving east and gaining intensity again over Arizona.
Visitors heading to popular destinations such as Las Vegas, Phoenix and Los Angeles are strongly encouraged to review heat precautions and take steps to stay cool and healthy during this extreme heat period.
All-time monthly records are likely to fall
How hot will it be?
The earliest temperature ever recorded of 37.7 °C (100 °F) was recorded in Phoenix on March 26, 1988. The city could easily surpass that old record and experience its hottest March day on record next Saturday with a predicted high of 43°C (109°F).
The hottest March days ever
RELATED: Why extreme heat is one of the world’s deadliest weather disasters
Las Vegas, which is expected to reach 39°C (102°F) next Saturday, has officially never risen above 33.8°C (93°F) in March. The earliest measurement of 37.7 °C (100 °F) was on May 1, 1947 in Las Vegas.
The situation is similar in the southwest of the desert. Los Angeles, Palm Springs and even Death Valley are expected to experience their hottest March temperatures on record during next week’s heat wave.
US heat records in March in the Southwest
In fact, the United States’ March temperature record will most likely fall during this event. The current national benchmark for the month is 42.2 °C (108 °F) in Rio Grande City, Texas, on March 30, 1954.
Canadians will also feel the warmth
Our extensive high pressure ridge will also flex its muscles across the international border.
While extreme heat will continue across the southwestern United States, unusually warm temperatures are likely from southeastern British Columbia to southern Saskatchewan as highs form high in the atmosphere and downward winds blow through the region.
BC atmospheric river event Monday to Wednesday
Readings are expected to be more than 10 degrees above seasonal levels across the region for several days next week.
This emerging pattern is also helping to send strong atmospheric flow into coastal British Columbia and creating a cross-country storm track favorable for clipper systems.
WATCH: When are temperatures hottest in Canada?
Click here to watch the video