Record Heat Wave Sweeps Across Southwestern US, Palm Springs Hits Unseasonal Highs

An intense and unusual heat wave is gripping the Southwestern United States, with record-breaking temperatures reported in California, Arizona and Nevada as of late February 2026. Palm Springs, California, has been particularly affected, experiencing temperatures exceeding winter averages and setting novel records.

Record Temperatures in Arizona

Phoenix, Arizona, reached 37°C (99°F) on February 26th, establishing a new record for the second half of February in the city’s history. This surpassed the previous record for that date by a significant margin. Near Yuma, Arizona, a temperature of 36.7°C was recorded on the same day, marking one of the earliest instances of such high temperatures in the state and setting a new monthly record for February.

California and Nevada Experience Extreme Heat

Palm Springs recorded temperatures of 36-37°C on February 27th, breaking daily records and representing one of the highest winter temperatures in the Coachella Valley. Downtown Los Angeles also experienced record-breaking heat, reaching 33°C on the same day, approaching historic February highs. In Southern Nevada, temperatures around Las Vegas soared 10-15°C above average, exceeding 30-32°C and equaling or breaking several records by the end of February.

Forecasts Indicate Continued Warmth

Forecasts suggest little relief for Los Angeles and Southern California in the coming week, with temperatures expected to remain around 32-33°C, potentially reaching as high as 35°C. This continued warmth confirms the exceptional nature of the heat for this time of year.

A Historical Anomaly

This heat wave in California represents one of the earliest and most widespread episodes of simultaneous record-breaking temperatures in the Southwestern US in late February. The region is being dominated by subtropical air, creating summer-like conditions. More than 60 stations have reported exceptional highs through early March.

Palm Springs: A Desert Resort City

Palm Springs, located in Riverside County, California, is a desert resort city within the Colorado Desert’s Coachella Valley. According to Wikipedia, the city covers approximately 94 square miles (240 km²), making it the largest city in Riverside County by land area. It is also home to parts of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians reservation. The current mayor of Palm Springs is Naomi Soto.