HEAT WAVE: 110+ Degree Weather Coming to Northern California this Weekend

Northern California is bracing itself for the arrival of its second heat wave of the year, coming just two weeks after the first. The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning on Thursday morning, forecasting scorching triple-digit temperatures for the Sacramento region. The warning will go into effect at 11 a.m. on Saturday and last until 11 p.m. on Sunday, covering areas such as Modesto, Stockton, Shasta County, the Sacramento Valley, Carquinez Strait, and the Delta region.

The service has predicted that temperatures in Redding and Red Bluff could reach as high as 114 degrees. In their warning, they stated that the hottest temperatures are expected over the weekend, with a widespread Major Heat Risk and areas of Extreme Heat Risk. The service also advised that rivers and lakes are still running cold and fast.

Forecast highs today! Hot temperatures topping 100 degrees in the valley and many foothill locations below 2000 feet. #CAwx pic.twitter.com/KavYl9Zm7p

— NWS Sacramento (@NWSSacramento) July 14, 2023

Certain individuals will be particularly vulnerable to the heat, including pregnant women, newborns, children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses. The service advises everyone to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, seek shelter in air-conditioned buildings or indoors, and never leave children or pets in cars. It is also recommended to reschedule strenuous activities to the early morning or evening, and to wear light and loose clothing.

In terms of the forecast, the Sacramento area will experience highs around 97 degrees on Thursday, with a low near 62. Triple-digit temperatures will kick off on Friday, with a high near 106 and a low around 66 in eastern Sacramento County. Saturday will see a high near 110, followed by a high around 108 on Sunday across the capital region. Lows for the weekend are expected to be near 70 degrees. Temperatures are likely to drop after Monday, with an expected high of 101, and Tuesday’s high will be near 95.

The Tahoe region will see highs in the lower 90s and lows in the high 50s. It is currently under a heat advisory until Sunday, according to the Truckee forecast. On the other hand, the Bay Area will provide a cooler escape from the heat.

A #heatwave is hitting California, bringing 100-degree temperatures to much of the state. The @NWS shares a breakdown for Northern California.

Find resources to beat the heat: https://t.co/RhnaDonsEG pic.twitter.com/isnxvv2geI

— California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (@Cal_OES) July 14, 2023

Additionally, Spare the Air days will be in effect from Thursday to Saturday. The air quality is forecasted as unhealthy for sensitive groups, with an Air Quality Index of 126 and 129 on Thursday and Friday, respectively. Spare the Air advises people to reduce driving and opt for carpooling, biking, or walking in the morning when pollution levels are lower.

It’s important to be aware of the signs of heat stroke, as extreme heat can lead to illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms of heat stroke include a high body temperature of 103 degrees or higher, hot and red skin, a fast pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and fainting. If someone experiences these symptoms, they should seek a cool place immediately and call 911. They can try to lower their body temperature with a cool cloth or bath, but they should avoid drinking anything.