1st stretch of hot weather this year to grip southwestern US
The highest temperatures of 2019 so far are in store for much of Arizona, southern Nevada, interior Southern California, southern Utah, much of western New Mexico and western Texas into Tuesday.
Temperatures are forecast to surge into the upper 80s, 90s and lower 100s Fahrenheit across the lower elevations of the interior Southwest.
In the mountains, temperatures will climb well into the 50s, 60s and 70s, which will trigger a significant amount of snow melt.
Even though conditions in this region range from semi-arid to desert, temperatures will still climb to 10-20 degrees above average for early April. Temperatures will stop short of record levels in most cases.
Cities that will experience their hottest weather so far this year include Riverside, California; Albuquerque, New Mexico; St. George, Utah; El Paso, Texas; Phoenix and Las Vegas.
A northward bulge in the jet stream combined with a building area of high pressure will help to drive the temperature trend upward.
Those taking to the trails or doing manual labor are reminded to drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic fluids to remain properly hydrated.
The flow and water levels on area streams and rivers will be on the rise as the thaw progresses into the mountains even though no rain or thunderstorms are forecast until the middle of next week.
Many of the mountains in the region experienced above-average snowfall this past winter. Rainfall has been abundant in most locations. Both have wiped out extreme drought conditions from last year at this time, according to the United States Drought Monitor.
While the pattern will be a boon for whitewater enthusiasts, dangerous conditions may develop. Always consult a trained professional.
Water warms at a much slower pace than the air temperature.
This time of the year, the temperature of area streams and rivers can be within a few degrees of freezing.
There is a high risk of cold water shock throughout the spring and summer, but especially during the first several rounds of hot weather.
Hikers and trekkers are also urged to use caution.
AccuWeather meteorologists will be monitoring the progress of a vigorous storm forecast to swing into the western United States early this week.
That storm may kick up high winds over much of the Southwest from Tuesday to Wednesday with heavy snow and blizzard conditions over part of the central Rockies.
Download the free AccuWeather app to see how warm your area is expected to get into Monday.
