An intense heat wave gripping the southwestern U.S. is expected to peak Thursday, Aug. 7, with temperatures soaring well into the triple digits.
Relief isn’t expected anytime soon, as a heat dome remains stalls over the region, driving dangerously high temperatures from the Coachella Valley and San Diego County deserts to New Mexico. Temperatures will remain unusually warm through the weekend, and another hot spell is in the forecast early next week.
As of early Thursday, Aug. 7, an excessive heat warning is in effect for much of Southern California — including Palm Springs, Indio, Palm Desert, Coachella, Borrego Springs, Cathedral City, La Quinta, and Palm Desert Country — through 8 p.m. PT Friday, Aug. 8. The National Weather Service in San Diego warns of “dangerously hot conditions.”
Southern California heat wave: How hot will it get near you?
The intense heat wave, expected to peak Thursday, Aug. 7, will push temperatures across Southern California well above 100 degrees, according to the National Weather Service office in San Diego.
Coastal areas are forecast to see highs between 78 and 87 degrees. Western valleys and inland Orange County will experience temperatures from 87 to 95 degrees. Inland valleys can expect highs ranging from 94 up to 104 degrees.
Mountain areas between 4,000 and 7,000 feet elevation will have temperatures between 84 and 95 degrees. The high desert region is expected to reach 99 to 106 degrees, while the low desert areas will be the hottest, with highs between 114 and 118 degrees.
Palm Springs could hit 118 degrees, according to the weather service.
Phoenix sets record for daily temperature
Phoenix set a new daily temperature record on Wednesday, Aug. 6, reaching a sizzling 116 degrees as dangerous heat blanketed the Valley.
The new record was set at 4:21 p.m. at Sky Harbor International Airport, surpassing the previous record of 114 degrees previously hit in 2023, 2018 and 1995. Temperatures are expected to continue to climb the afternoon of Thursday, Aug. 7, possibly reaching another record for the daily high temperature.
What are the symptoms of heat-related illness?
Extreme heat is the deadliest weather-related hazard in the United States, claiming more lives each year than hurricanes, floods or tornadoes.
Experts urge Californians to take precautions: stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, wear light clothing and check on vulnerable neighbors, including older people and those without air conditioning, throughout these next couple of weeks and into the summer.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, multiple types of heat-related illnesses exist. Heat cramps and heat rash can be treated by staying indoors and getting hydrated. But some others are more serious.
Heat exhaustion symptoms
Heat exhaustion is a mild heat-related illness that occurs in hot temperatures, especially when you’re not drinking enough water or other nonalcoholic fluids. People most at risk for heat exhaustion are the elderly, those with high blood pressure, and individuals working or exercising in the heat.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
If you or anyone you’re with experiences these symptoms, move to a shaded or air-conditioned area, use a fan, or immerse in cool water. Also, drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages with electrolytes like water or sports drinks.
Heat stroke symptoms
Heat exhaustion can escalate into heat stroke, a serious, life-threatening condition. Heat stroke occurs when the body’s temperature rises rapidly, and it can no longer cool itself down.
Early symptoms of heat stroke are similar to heat exhaustion but progress to more severe signs, including:
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect someone is experiencing it, seek immediate medical attention. Without emergency treatment, heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability.
Brandi D. Addison writes about weather across the country for the USA TODAY Network’s Weather Connect. Reach her at baddison@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Millions under threat of heat wave gripping California as temps climb to 118+
Reporting by Brandi D. Addison, USA TODAY NETWORK / Palm Springs Desert Sun
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
