Danger due to first heat wave in the western US

Heatwave to last all week.

Increased risk of wildfires.

Record temperatures in inland areas.

Alert! The first widespread heatwave in the western United States is brewing and will last until the end of the week.

AccuWeather meteorologists warn that heat and dryness will increase the risk of wildfires in some situations.

A combination of a bulge in the jet stream, increased high pressure at most levels of the atmosphere, and a storm off the coast of California are factors.

This will allow heat to build up without rain or thunderstorm activity in much of the west.

Heatwave alert in the west

Heatwave alert in the west PHOTO: Shutterstock

The National Weather Service defines a heatwave as a period of abnormally hot weather, with or without high humidity, lasting more than two days.

Heatwaves can be dangerous, especially for those unable to take breaks in a cool environment.

Also of interest: Deadly storms hit North Carolina killing a high school cheerleader

Experts urge people to take it easy and stay hydrated as the heatwave intensifies.

East of the Sierra Nevada, highs between 90 and 100 degrees will also challenge records in Reno, Nevada.

While places closer to the coast, such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, are projected to have highs between 60 and 70 degrees.

Inland areas like Las Vegas and Phoenix will have scorching temperatures for much of the week, with daytime highs rising above 100 degrees.

In Las Vegas, temperatures are forecasted to reach 108 degrees on Wednesday, 111 degrees on Thursday, and 110 degrees on Friday.

As a result, daily records are 109 set in 2016, 110 set in 2010, and 109 set in 2013.

Increased risk of wildfires

Heatwave alert in the west PHOTO: Shutterstock

It has also been mentioned that scorching heat and blazing sun above are a perfect recipe for wildfires, according to AccuWeather.

Although deep soil moisture is abundant and most trees are well-watered after two winters of abundant rain and snow in the mountains, the top layer of soil can quickly dry out.

This can lead to sudden drought conditions in the soil, and some fast-burning fuels, such as grass, can quickly become ready for ignition.

Temperatures are forecasted to reach at least 110 degrees in Phoenix from Wednesday to Friday. Residents in these areas should take extra precautions to protect themselves from extreme heat.

TO LISTEN TO THE PODCAST, CLICK ON THE IMAGE

PHOTO: MundoNOW