A dangerous heat dome peaks today

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1. A [searing heat dome](https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/06/weather/california-heat-dome-west-record-climate/index.html) will reach peak intensity Thursday afternoon and usher in the hottest day of the year so far for millions in the western US.

   Temperatures Thursday will top out up to 25 degrees above what’s normal for the time of the year, making it feel like a hot July day in many locations.

   Heat will continue through the weekend before easing off a bit early next week. However, many typically hot areas in the West will still have to contend with temperatures up to 10 degrees above normal.

   A robust heat dome – a large area of high pressure that parks over an area, traps air and heats it with abundant sunshine for days or weeks – is driving this prolonged, unseasonable heat.

   The temperatures will be dangerous for those exposed to the elements and unable to cool off. Relief from the heat won’t be found at night, either – another symptom of a world warming due to fossil fuel pollution.

   Excessive heat warnings are in effect for more than 18 million people in California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. A majority of these warnings, which are the most extreme form of heat alert issued by the National Weather Service, remain active through Friday.