Fresno, Calif. – Central California is preparing for a stretch of dangerous heat as a strong ridge of high pressure builds over the state and the Great Basin, pushing temperatures into triple digits by Sunday and Labor Day. The National Weather Service in Hanford warns that the hottest conditions will be concentrated in the San Joaquin Valley, where communities from Fresno to Bakersfield face elevated risks of heat-related illnesses.
Heat Probabilities and Impact
Forecasters estimate a 55 to 70 percent chance of reaching or surpassing 100 degrees across several valley cities on Sunday and Monday. Visalia faces the highest likelihood, with a 70 percent chance of breaking the triple-digit mark. Fresno and Bakersfield share similar odds, while Hanford is also expected to push past the century mark. Even typically cooler locations such as Merced and Madera are forecast to climb well into the 90s, leaving few areas of refuge from the heat.
This extreme heat poses significant health risks, particularly for older adults, children, outdoor workers, and individuals without access to cooling or air conditioning. Officials stress that symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop quickly in these conditions, especially during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Safety Recommendations
Residents are strongly urged to take precautions to minimize exposure to the dangerous heat:
- Stay hydrated by drinking water frequently, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Avoid outdoor activity during peak heating hours, generally from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and use hats or umbrellas for shade.
- Check on vulnerable neighbors, including the elderly, children, and those with health conditions.
- Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, as interior temperatures can rise to deadly levels within minutes.
Cooling centers may be activated in some communities if conditions worsen, and additional advisories are possible if the heat intensifies beyond current forecasts.
Extended Forecast for Fresno, Calif.
- Thursday: High near 94, mostly sunny
- Friday: High near 96, sunny and dry
- Saturday: High near 98, mostly sunny
- Sunday: High near 102, hot and sunny
- Labor Day Monday: High near 103, dangerous heat continues
Outlook
The oppressive heat is forecast to persist into early next week, with only gradual relief possible after Tuesday. Until then, Central Valley residents should remain vigilant and prioritize heat safety measures as Labor Day approaches.
