National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Dangerous Heat Builds and Expands; Critical Fire Weather for the Southwest; Severe Thunderstorms for Plains and Midwest

Dangerous to record breaking heat will build across the center of the nation and slowly build eastward this week. Wildfire conditions remain critical for the Southwest and portions of the Great Basin through Monday. For the northern Plains and upper Midwest, severe thunderstorms with the potential for large to very large hail and severe winds are the primary hazards. Read More >

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Last Map Update: Wed, Jul 1, 2026 at 12:08:44 pm PDT

The Fourth of July falls during the driest part of the year. Grasses and brush are fully cured, and low humidity dries them out even further. Under these conditions, a single spark can grow into a fast-moving fire within minutes. Wind is the multiplier. Gusts push flames into fresh fuel and carry embers ahead of the fire, starting new spot fires downwind. 🎆 Fireworks rules vary by city, county, and agency, and many areas ban them entirely. Check with your local fire department or county authorities. 🔗 weather.gov/hanford
Sustained winds of up to 30 mph and gusts up to 45 mph are expected at San Luis Reservoir and along Highway 152. Gusts this high are capable of producing whitecap waves dangerous to small watercraft and are dangerous to drivers, particularly those in high-profile vehicles. Exercise caution if recreating at San Luis Reservoir or driving in the area. These winds will likely continue into the weekend.

 

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