continental United States
Coverage of continental United States in the Nexus archive.
- What makes a ‘heat dome’ and what does it mean?
Heat domes, high-pressure systems trapping heat and humidity, are causing extreme and prolonged heat waves globally. These events are worsening due to climate change, with recent impacts in the continental U.S., Europe, and parts of Asia. Heat domes lead to dangerous temperatures, health risks, and increased frequency of heat-related events.
- US had hottest March on record as nation faced ‘unprecedented’ heat
The continental US experienced its hottest March on record with temperatures 9.35F above the 20th-century average. NOAA data highlights unprecedented heat, with forecasts predicting a stronger El Niño to further increase global temperatures.
- March sets new record for most abnormally hot month in continental US
March 2026 became the hottest March on record for the continental U.S., with temperatures 9.4°F above the 20th-century average. NOAA data reveals 10 states set new records for extreme heat during the month.
- March smashes record as most abnormally hot month for continental US, federal meteorologists say
March was the most abnormally hot month on record for the continental United States since records began in 1880, according to NOAA data.