A long-duration heat wave is taking shape over the western half of the U.S. and forecast to stick around in the days ahead.

And that same day, the temperature just outside Martinez Lake, Ariz., reached 110 degrees F (43 degrees C)—the highest March temperature ever recorded in the U.S. The heat wave that is engulfing much of the western U.

“I’d always said I would take 120 degrees over rain. I didn’t think it would actually be close to 120 degrees,” one Arizona bride said

Numerous other records could be broken when extreme heat hits next week, with temperatures surging into the triple digits.

Historic temperatures in March have led to Arizona setting daily heat records this week. March Madness 2026: How to watch the Arizona vs. Long Island University first-round game in the men's NCAA bask

An extreme heat warning was in effect for metro Phoenix as temperatures were forecast to reach a record-breaking temps. Officials urge residents to take summer-like precautions, such as staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activity during peak heat hours.

On Friday at 12:05 a.m. an extreme heat warning was issued by the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA in effect until 8 p.m. The warning is for Santa Lucia Mountains, San Luis Obispo County Mountains, Santa Ynez Mountains Western Range,

The prolonged heat wave is expected to peak on Tuesday and remain until Friday for most areas across the region.

The final few days of winter will feel more like summer in Southern California. It’s going to be a very hot week, once again. Let’s look at the weather warnings, advisories, and what to expect in Los Angeles.