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By Anna Skinner
Associate News Editor
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Millions across the Southwest are under days‑long extreme heat warnings, with forecasters urging people to avoid caffeine, including coffee, as temperatures surge up to 30 degrees above normal.
Extreme heat warnings are in effect across southern Nevada, southern California and much of Arizona. Many of the warnings will remain in place through Sunday evening, covering major population centers such as Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix and Tucson.
Forecast offices warn that temperatures will soar well into the 100s, depending on location, a level typically seen in mid-summer, not March. Dozens of temperature records are expected to be broken. Warm overnight lows will offer little relief, further increasing heat‑related risk.
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"This heat dome is not just early and intense—it is stubborn. A multiday stretch of extreme heat significantly increases the risk of heat-related illnesses," AccuWeather senior meteorologist Tyler Roys told Newsweek.
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A safety graphic released by the National Weather Service (NWS) Las Vegas office underscores the danger. The advisory lists “Caffeinate” under heat‑wave “DON’Ts,” noting that alcohol and caffeine can accelerate dehydration during extreme heat. Other actions people were urged to avoid during the heat wave included eating heavy foods, as meals high in protein raise body temperature, and leaving children in cars, as "car interiors can reach lethal temperatures within minutes."
Among the "DO" list were action items such as hydrating with water and electrolyte drinks, protecting one's body by using sunscreen and wearing loose, light-colored clothing, and planning to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
The NWS Las Vegas extreme heat warning also encouraged people to stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check in on relatives and neighbors.
"Pets, livestock, and those sensitive to heat, such as the homeless, elderly, and children will be at risk for heat-related illnesses. Those without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration will be at the greatest risk," NWS Flagstaff said in an extreme heat warning.
In some cases, outdoor recreators such as hikers were told not to venture down certain trails because of the surging temperatures.
"Day hikers on Bright Angel Trail should descend no farther than 1 1/2 miles from the upper trailhead," NWS Flagstaff said. "Between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM, hikers should be out of the canyon or at Havasupai Gardens or Bright Angel campgrounds, physical activity is discouraged. All hikers should have adequate gear, including a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, salty snacks, sufficient water, and electrolyte mix. Doubling your calorie intake helps maintain your energy."
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