Historic heat wave brings dangerous triple-digit temperatures

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - A rare and dangerous March heat wave is taking hold across Yuma County and Imperial County, with temperatures soaring into the triple digits days earlier than normal.

High pressure building over the Desert Southwest is driving the extreme heat, with temperatures already pushing into the upper 90s Tuesday and expected to climb even higher through the rest of the week.

By Wednesday, both Yuma and El Centro are expected to reach and exceed 100 degrees, marking an unusually early start to triple-digit heat in the region.

An Extreme Heat Warning goes into effect Wednesday for Imperial County and expands into Yuma County on Thursday lasting through Sunday evening.

Forecasters say the hottest days will come Friday and Saturday when highs could range between 103 and 109 degrees across the lower deserts.

That’s well above average for mid-March and could challenge or break daily records across both counties.

The biggest concern isn't just the temperature, but how long the heat will stick around.

Conditions will remain hot through the weekend, with little overnight relief and very dry air in place. Humidity levels are expected to drop as low as 5 to 10%, increasing the risk for heat-related illness, especially for those spending extended time outdoors.

Even into early next week, temperatures will stay elevated, with highs still near or just below 100 degrees before gradually cooling into the 90s.

Officials urge residents across Yuma and Imperial counties to take precautions, including staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, and taking breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces.

With several consecutive days of extreme heat ahead, this early-season heat wave is shaping up to be one of the most impactful March warmups the region has seen in years.