‘Intense’ heat wave continues in Fresno and the Valley. Is there any relief in sight?
An excessive heat warning remains in effect for Fresno, and the rest of the central San Joaquin Valley, as an unusual and intense heat wave continues to scourge the region with triple-digit temperatures.
Bill South, a senior meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Hanford, said the warning will be in effect through 8 p.m. Thursday.
Temperatures in Fresno reached 105 degrees on Saturday. On Sunday, it was expected to climb as high as 107 degrees. The record for the date in the city is 107, set in 1955 and matched in 1988.
On Labor Day, the high is forecast to reach 109. Tuesday could be the hottest yet, at 113, while the forecast for Wednesday calls for a high of 109 and on Thursday, 108.
“We are not really expecting substantial relief from this heat wave until this (next) weekend — Saturday and Sunday,” South said, adding that temperatures are expected to dip into the 90s.
Temperatures for the following week will start to return to the mid-90s, which is more usual for this time of year, he said.
“It’s usually a little late for this type of intense heat wave,” South said.
South reiterated that people should try to remain indoors where there is air conditioning, stay out of the sun, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities. If people need to be especially active outside, he recommends they do so early in the morning before temperatures begin to rise or late in the evening, when temperatures go down a bit.
South urged people to be cautious of the heat, especially on Tuesday when temperatures will be the highest. People should wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
“Drink lots and lots of water,” he said. “Dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion and even heat stroke.”
A flex alert by the California Independent System Operator remains in place from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Consumers are urged to set their thermostats at 78 degrees or higher, to avoid using major appliances and to turn off unnecessary lights, according to a news release.
The flex alert has been in place throughout the week.
This story was originally published September 4, 2022 at 11:03 AM.
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