CAC’s Margie Alt on Early, Record-Breaking Climate-Driven Extreme Heat Across Western States
For Immediate Release: March 18, 2026
Contact: Gabrielle Levy, glevy@cacampaign.org, (562) 673-6974
CAC’s Margie Alt on Early, Record-Breaking Climate-Driven Extreme Heat Across Western States
WASHINGTON – This week, the Western United States is facing extreme heat unseasonably early. Communities across Arizona, California, and other parts of the Southwest are expected to reach triple-digit temperatures, with over two dozen records already broken across Southern California. These dangerous temperatures are coming in the middle of a March that’s been the warmest on record so far across the country. Margie Alt, Director of the Climate Action Campaign, released the following statement in response:
“It’s a record-breaking start to extreme heat season in Arizona – and across the West. Triple-digit temperatures in March are not a hoax. It’s a dangerous, deadly, and costly problem, and we have solutions that slash the pollution driving extreme weather and fight the climate crisis. A climate-driven heat dome is pushing temperatures to record highs, with 800 high-temperature records across the West and Southwest predicted to fall this week.
“Clean energy delivers. It reduces pollution that drives extreme heat, cuts climate pollution, and slashes electricity bills. Congress has an opportunity to tackle these problems with the newly introduced Energy Bills Relief Act and provide real relief from extreme weather created by the climate crisis and skyrocketing prices.
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About the Climate Action Campaign
Climate Action Campaign (CAC) is a vibrant coalition driving ambitious, durable, equitable federal action to tackle the climate crisis. By cutting carbon pollution and accelerating the transition to clean energy, we will improve public health and create a more resilient economy and a more sustainable future for all.
