A significant heatwave is sweeping from the Pacific coast to central North America, marking one of the highest recorded early spring temperatures. Warm air is moving north from northern Mexico and the southwestern U.S., causing record temperatures in places like Burbank, California, which saw highs of 98°F and 101°F. This extreme heat has fueled wildfires in Minnesota and Manitoba, with some fires forcing severe evacuations and creating hazardous air quality conditions.
By mid-May, areas such as Austin and San Antonio, Texas, recorded temperatures above 100°F. The heat is exacerbated by an ongoing drought in parts of Mexico and the U.S., with some areas experiencing tropical nights, where temperatures don’t drop below 68°F. As of late April, major reservoirs like Lake Powell and Lake Mead are at historically low levels, highlighting the ongoing water crisis in the southwestern U.S.
The unusual heat and dry conditions have raised concerns about drought development, despite some areas in the central U.S. receiving adequate rainfall. Overall, this early heatwave could lead to one of the hottest springs on record if temperatures continue to rise.
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