Record-Breaking Heat in March: A Climate Change Reality

0:00In Durham today, March 21st, parts of California and Arizona faced extreme heat warnings again on Saturday with summer-like temperatures pushing into Nebraska just one day into spring. Forecasts called for 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher across the southwest, capping off a week of record-breaking warmth. In Yuma, Arizona, the Mercury was expected to hit 105 degrees following a 112 degree record the day before. March temperature ever in the United States. Southern California spots also top 112 degrees Friday, way ahead of the usual May timeline for triple-digit heat. A 63-year-old couple from Utah cut their two-week 170-mile hike short on the Arizona Trail, heading home early because the heat made it too risky. With no shade, drying water sources, and bodies unable to cool down, they decided to play it safe rather than push their limits. Meanwhile, Nebraska braced for 90s across the state Saturday along with red flag warnings for higher wildfire risks before a drop to the 50s and 60s Sunday.

1:07Texas areas also saw 90s highlighting how unusual this early heat has been. Experts from an international group now say human-caused climate change made this March heat virtually impossible without our influence. And they expect April, May, and June to run hotter than normal nearly everywhere in the country.