USA hit by heat wave - record temperatures in March

An unusual heat wave hit the western United States last week, bringing record temperatures to some regions, as the calendar winter has not yet ended, AFP reports. Temperatures of up to 41.6 degrees Celsius have been recorded in recent days, significantly exceeding the usual values for March and approaching historical highs for this period. The American meteorological services, the National Weather Service (NWS), have issued extreme heat alerts for regions in California and Arizona, warning of the risks to the population. "We are recording temperatures much higher than normal," said meteorologist Rose Schoenfeld. According to her, it is the "first major heat wave" of this year, which comes after a period of low temperatures, which makes the population insufficiently adapted to the sudden change.

• Recommendations for the population

Authorities recommend avoiding sun exposure during peak hours, staying properly hydrated, and using air-conditioned spaces. The NWS warns that these temperatures are "extremely rare for the month of March,” which increases the risk of medical problems, especially among vulnerable people. Scientists believe that such episodes are a direct consequence of climate change, which is causing an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather phenomena. The year 2025 was marked by numerous such events: heat waves in Europe, Asia, and North America; violent cyclones and storms; devastating wildfires in Spain, Canada, and California. "We are likely to continue to break daily records, as well as historical records in some regions,” warned Rose Schoenfeld.

• Impact on the environment and natural rhythms

These unusual temperatures are affecting not only the population, but also ecosystems, given that winter officially ends in the Northern Hemisphere on March 20. Early heat waves can disrupt wildlife behavior, vegetation cycles, and natural balances, amplifying the already visible effects of global warming.