Authorities in California are sounding the alarm about the health risks and wildfire dangers looming over the state as a prolonged heat wave is expected to begin on Tuesday, bringing scorching temperatures and minimal overnight cooling. Antoinette Serrato, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, warned that this heat wave will provide little relief overnight and is likely to persist through the Fourth of July holiday and into the following week, particularly affecting Northern California, the Central Valley, and the southwestern deserts.
In Los Angeles County, inland valleys and mountainous regions are under an excessive heat watch from Wednesday through Sunday, with temperatures projected to range from 95 to 110 degrees. However, the coastal areas of Southern California are expected to experience milder temperatures. UCLA climate scientist Daniel Swain emphasized the statewide nature of this heat event, which may extend well into mid-July due to a high-pressure system known as a heat dome moving in from the Pacific.
The combination of intense heat and a red flag warning for extreme fire weather in portions of the northern San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento Valley on Tuesday raises concerns about potential wildfires. Pacific Gas & Electric Co. has announced the possibility of power cuts in Northern California counties due to high winds and dry conditions. The utility company is implementing safety shutoffs to prevent accidental fire ignitions in counties like Colusa, Glenn, Lake, Napa, Shasta, Solano, Tehama, and Yolo.
To prepare for the potential power shutoffs, PG&E has indicated that up to 12,000 customers in eight counties and two tribal areas could be affected. The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services has strategically positioned fire engines and personnel across the state in anticipation of increased fire risks. The National Weather Service has issued red flag warnings for the Sacramento Valley and North Bay interior mountains, highlighting the dangerous combination of strong winds, low humidity, and hot temperatures.
The extreme heat poses significant health risks across California, with overnight temperatures expected to remain around 70 degrees or higher in many areas. From Humboldt County to San Diego County, an excessive heat warning is in effect, with temperatures reaching or exceeding 107 degrees in the Central Valley and up to 121 degrees in the Coachella Valley and San Diego County deserts. Inland areas like the Antelope Valley may experience temperatures between 105 to 115 degrees, while Death Valley could see highs of 125 degrees with overnight lows staying above 90 degrees.
Additionally, areas like northern Humboldt County, Trinity, and Lake counties are forecasted to have record-breaking temperatures exceeding 110 degrees. The inland Bay Area could see highs up to 110 degrees, while San Francisco is under a heat advisory with temperatures in the mid-90s. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District has issued a “Spare the Air” alert due to unhealthy ozone concentrations, urging residents to reduce air pollution.
Looking ahead, the Climate Prediction Center forecasts above-average temperatures to continue through at least July 10, indicating the possibility of a prolonged and intense heat wave. Vulnerable populations, such as infants, the elderly, and pregnant individuals, are especially at risk during these extreme conditions. Residents are advised to take precautions, stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and utilize cooling centers if needed to stay safe and cool.