After experiencing one of the hottest summers on record, cities across the Southwest and West are bracing themselves for an impending heat wave that is set to hit midweek. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued heat warnings, watches, and advisories for more than 41 million people across states including Arizona, Oregon, and California.

According to forecasts, a powerful heat dome will push temperatures into the scorching 100s°F to 110s°F range in cities like Phoenix and Las Vegas. Inland areas of California will also be affected, with triple-digit heat expected. The NWS forecast office in Phoenix has cautioned that such high temperatures in early September pose a significant risk for heat-related illnesses if individuals fail to take proper precautions.

Excessive heat warnings and advisories have been extended to desert regions of California, including areas in the heart of the state's agricultural region, such as Sacramento. This indicates that the heat wave's impact will be felt across a wide geographical area.

It is important to note that heat waves are increasingly becoming more severe, prolonged, and frequent due to the effects of human-induced global warming. These extreme heat events not only pose risks to public health but can also have other far-reaching consequences.

Looking ahead, although the intensity of this upcoming heat wave may subside by early next week, long-range forecasts suggest that more heat events are likely throughout September. The combination of record-breaking heat over the summer and a warmer-than-average fall could potentially shorten and dim the colors of the fall foliage season, which is a cherished activity in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions. Climate change impacts, such as warmer ocean temperatures in the Atlantic and a developing La Niña climate cycle in the Pacific, may further contribute to unusual weather patterns affecting the region.

While hurricane season is typically at its peak during this time of the year, the Atlantic Ocean has remained unusually quiet. This prolonged period of calm, in contrast to the record warmth of its waters, has raised concerns and piqued the interest of meteorologists and climate scientists alike.

As cities and individuals in the Southwest and West prepare for the looming heat wave, it serves as yet another reminder of the urgent need to address the effects of climate change and implement strategies to mitigate its impact on both the environment and human well-being.