A heat dome is set to bring high temperatures to the West this weekend, with temperatures expected to soar 10 to 15 degrees higher than normal. The heat wave could raise wildfire concerns, especially in areas that are already experiencing drought.

Affected Areas

The heat dome is expected to affect areas in the Rockies, including Montana, Wyoming, and the Dakotas. Cities such as Billings, Montana, and Salt Lake City, Utah, could see temperatures near 105 degrees.

The heat wave is also expected to expand into the central US early next week, with areas such as the Denver metropolitan area potentially seeing temperatures flirt with triple digits.

Wildfire Concerns

The heat dome could raise wildfire concerns, especially in areas that are already experiencing drought. However, the large area of high pressure that is driving the heat wave may also reduce the likelihood of gusty winds that could fan flames.

Despite the potential for wildfires, the heat dome may also bring some moisture to parts of the Rockies, which could help to tamp down temperatures and reduce the risk of fires.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.