The NWS forecast on Aug. 1 that an extreme heatwave will sweep the western United States this weekend, with temperatures likely topping 40°C in many areas. The agency warned the event, combined with preceding prolonged heat and dry conditions, could

2026-08-02

The NWS forecast on Aug. 1 that an extreme heatwave will sweep the western United States this weekend, with temperatures likely topping 40°C in many areas. The agency warned the event, combined with preceding prolonged heat and dry conditions, could further elevate wildfire risk. National Interagency Fire Center data on Aug. 1 showed 84 large wildfires burning nationwide, the majority in the West, with more than 26,000 firefighters and support personnel engaged in suppression efforts.