Southwest Swelters, Phoenix Hits 118°F

A historic heat wave that struck the city of Phoenix, Arizona has set a new benchmark, with temperatures reaching 110 degrees for 19 consecutive days. The temperatures continued to climb, reaching as high as 118 degrees, breaking records for that date. The extreme heat is not expected to end soon, with forecasts predicting temperatures of 115 degrees or higher for at least the next week. The heat wave is part of a broader trend of extreme heat affecting the southern tier of the United States, as well as other regions like southern Europe, the Middle East, and China. The intensity and duration of the heat wave have surpassed previous records, making it an unprecedented weather event for the city. The heat wave is attributed to an unusually strong and persistent area of high pressure over the southwest region, resulting in clear skies and prolonged heat. The only relief from the heat is expected to come from the annual monsoon season, which typically occurs between June and September.