Fresno and Hanford burn through heat records. Just when will cooler days get here?

Thermometers in Fresno reached 111 degrees Friday, topping the record for the date of 109 reached Sept. 2, 2017, the National Weather Service said.

Hanford, too, set a record for the date of 109, also exceeding a 2017 mark of 107.

Meteorologists at the weather service office in Hanford said it was unlikely that the central San Joaquin Valley would see significant cooling take place until a high-pressure front locking in the sweltering heat begins to break down in the next several days.

Saturday was expected to be slightly cooler, said Modesto Vasquez, a meteorologist with the weather service in Hanford. But then the heat was expected to begin climbing again. Sunday, the forecast calls for 108 degrees, and for Monday, 109.

Temperatures were expected to stay in the mid-70s at night.

Record August heat

In August, Fresno had an average daily high temperature of 86.7 degrees and Hanford 84.5, both records for the month.

Through Friday, Fresno was at 59 days in the year with a triple-digit high temperature — 22 in August alone.

Take care of pets

As the Valley continued to swelter, the Humane Society reminded residents not to forget their four-legged friends

Dog walkers were urged to take their pets on shorter walks and try to do so during early morning or evening hours. The Humane Society noted that short-nosed breeds have more difficulty breathing on hot days, and asphalt can burn pets’ paws. In addition, consider allowing pets to remain inside to enjoy air conditioning, and provide them with plenty of water.

This story was originally published September 2, 2022 at 8:28 PM.