UNITED STATES - Summer is hitting the western United States early this year, as states like California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington experience boiling temperatures atypical for May. And, with temperatures climbing thanks to a northward bulge in the jet stream, the possibility of new wildfires is climbing, too.

“Extreme temperatures and a lack of rain will heighten the wildfire threat across the Southwest, threatening lives and property across the region,” said Brett Edwards, AccuWeather Meteorologist, according to an AccuWeather report.

The National Weather Service reported temperatures in the lower elevations of Arizona, southern Nevada, and eastern California will rise to 100 degrees or higher this week, with high pressures remaining until a cold front from the Northwest descends into the area. Already, Thermal, California, hit a daily record of 110 degrees last Sunday—the highest temperature in the United States this year, according to a report by UPI.

“Relief from the heat can be found along the California coastline,” said AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Kristina Pydynowski. “Temperatures at Downtown Los Angeles will be held to near 80 early this week as highs in the 60s are expected for San Francisco.”

How will the sweltering temperatures impact the crops growing throughout the region this season? AndNowUKnow will continue to report on the latest weather highs and lows.