Desert West Braces for Lengthy Heat Wave and Record-Breaking Temperatures

A persistent high-pressure system is driving a long-duration heat wave across the western U.S., pushing triple-digit temperatures and potentially shattering century-old records in cities like Phoenix; more than 600 daily highs and lows are expected to break records through mid-next week, with extreme heat warnings in effect from the Southwest to Phoenix as residents are urged to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged outdoor activity.