After watching widespread record lows this week across the central states due to an arctic blast, record-breaking warmth is forecast to return this week in the southwestern U.S.
A ridge of high pressure in the Pacific will shift west and build into northern Mexico through the end of the week. This will gradually increase temperatures, especially in Southern California. Temperatures will be in the mid 80s when typical highs for cities like Los Angeles are in the high 60s.
It will not be only our notoriously warm cities that feel the increasing heat either. Denver has been on a wild ride as of late in terms of temperatures. After temperatures dropped below 0°F last Wednesday morning, the Mile High City is back in the 60s. This week, high temperatures will be around 20 degrees above average.
Along with warming temperatures, expect mostly dry conditions through this stretch. Pacific storm systems will be forced north, into Oregon and Washington, while California stays dry. Some precipitation is possible the first week of March, though temperatures will be well above average, meaning snow will be limited to high elevations.
Stay with WeatherNation as we continue to monitor this developing situation!