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.