A heat wave is affecting much of the western United States, including California, the Southwest, and the Pacific Northwest, bringing dangerously high temperatures and increasing the risk of wildfires. Southern California is under an extreme heat warning, with temperatures in some areas expected to reach the 110s over the weekend. The Bay Area and other parts of California are also experiencing heightened wildfire risk due to the heat. The Pacific Northwest is forecasted to see record-setting temperatures, while overnight lows remain unusually warm, with Phoenix recording a daily record warm low of 92 degrees. The heat wave has already resulted in hospitalizations and is expected to continue through the weekend, impacting more than 50 million people across states such as Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, and California. Authorities have issued excessive heat alerts and warnings, urging residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses and fire hazards. Rain chances are expected to increase starting Monday, potentially providing some relief.