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The high deserts of the Southwest can expect more temperatures over 110degrees Thursday afternoon, and ultraviolet radiation will be at the top of thescale. Then again, I can't think of anyone who would bask in the sun when thetemperature hits 110.The heat will extend well north through Utah, Nevada and California. At SaltLake City, Utah, it will reach 97 Thursday afternoon, Reno is expecting a highof 98, while Sacramento hits 102.

This is the type of pattern that can produce temperatures over 120 degreesin Death Valley. The hottest temperature on record for the United States is 134degrees which occurred in Death Valley on July 10, 1913.

Story by AccuWeather.com Expert Senior Meteorologist John Kocet.