Archive · 20 Aug 2025
Dangerous Heat Wave Brings Wildfire Risk to California and Southwest
A very hot spell is happening in California and the Southwest, like a giant oven turned up high.
The temperature is expected to be extremely high, with warnings in place.
This means it's important to stay cool, so places like Los Angeles have opened special cooling centers.
The weather also makes it easier for wildfires to start, so officials are watching out and have sent help to areas where fires are more likely.
If you live where there is a fire risk, you should know how to get out safely in case of a fire.
A dangerous heat wave has hit California and the Southwest, with triple-digit temperatures expected.
The National Weather Service issued an extreme heat warning for Southern California.
Cooling centers have been opened in Los Angeles, and residents are advised to avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
Red flag warnings for elevated wildfire danger are in effect for several counties until Saturday.
State firefighting resources have been deployed to high-risk areas.
- Who
- Residents of affected areas and local/state officials.
- What
- A dangerous heat wave with high temperatures and increased wildfire risk.
- When
- Starting Wednesday into the weekend.
- Where
- California and the U.S. Southwest, including Los Angeles, Death Valley, and Arizona.
- Why
- The heat wave poses health risks and increases the danger of wildfires.
- Extreme Heat Warning
- Southern California
- Expected Temperatures
- Up to 108 F (42 C) in valleys, 110 F (43 C) in parts of Arizona.
- Red Flag Warnings
- Issued for multiple counties until Saturday.
- Firefighting Resources
- Deployed to high-risk areas.
- Gifford Fire containment
- 95%