Most of California set to sizzle in baking triple digit temperatures this weekend
As California prepares for an intense heat wave, forecasters predict mammoth temperatures that could shatter records. What does this mean for residents?
Most of the state of California is about to experience its first major heat wave this season, with experts predicting many states will hit record temperatures this weekend.
Forecasters predict the sizzling heat will pick up on Friday, as temperatures are likely to climb to 100 degrees in the warmest deserts and valleys this weekend - and even higher in some areas.
The National Weather Service recently issued an updated heat advisory valid from Friday 11 a.m. until Saturday 10 p.m. for Northern Trinity, Southern Trinity, Northeastern Mendocino Interior and Southern Lake County as well as Lake County. The NWS said that temperatures as high as 105 are expected.
Who is predicted to be affected by the heat wave the most?
According to the National Weather Service in Los Angeles, California's Central Valley is likely to go into triple digits at the weekend, while some locations could break daily records.
Meanwhile, the Northern Californian city of Redding is forecast to go up to 109 degrees on Friday 30 May - this would reach the city’s record May temperature which was set in 2021.
The Californian capital Sacramento could go as high as 105 degrees on May 30, while Bakersfield may experience heat of 106 degrees on Saturday, NWS said. Paso Robles, Ojai, Palmdale and Lancaster are also likely to experience record highs.
Above-normal temperatures are predicted across most of California by Friday, May 30, according to The Climate Prediction Center.
NWS Sacramento posted on X, warning about the dangers of the latest heat forecast.
They wrote, “With well above normal temperatures expected this week, Moderate HeatRisk and areas of Major HeatRisk are in the forecast. Widespread triple digits are possible on Friday, with near record-to-record highs. Practice heat safety!”
Unfortunately, there isn’t likely to be much relief overnight relief either, according to NWS, with low temperatures of over 65 degrees forecasted.
Advice for those set to experience dangerous hot temperatures
The key is to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids while remaining in an air-conditioned room will keep you cool and out of danger for any heat-related illnesses.
It is important to avoid direct sun exposure, and while you need to protect yourself, make sure you check on vulnerable relatives and neighbours. Do not leave children and pets unattended in hot vehicles.
Avoid working outside during the heatwave, and if you do have to do anything strenuous outside, make sure it's in the early morning or late evening. This is when the temperatures will be at their lowest.
