Northern California’s first taste of summer: Heat watch issued as triple digits forecast

Northern California is expected to get its first taste of summer in the coming days in the form of a heat wave that could reach potentially dangerous temperatures.

The Sacramento office of the National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning Sunday which will last from Monday through Thursday.

“The first significant heat wave of the season is expected for Northern California this week. Daytime highs will be in the triple digits for most Valley locations, especially Tuesday through Thursday,” NWS forecasters wrote.

Temperatures are expected to reach triple digits in the Valley and the foothills, posing a possible risk of heat stroke and other adverse effects.

In its advisory, the NWS said the upcoming period of warming is the first significant heat wave in Northern California this year.

“Overnight temperatures will remain warm and offer little relief. Moderate to very high heat risk is expected, increasing chances for heat-related illnesses,” NWS wrote. “Heat related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur due to prolonged exposure to hot temperatures, including the general population. People most vulnerable include those who are spending lots of time outdoors, those without air conditioning, young children, the elderly and those with chronic ailments.”

Saturday is expected to remain mostly normal, with highs in the Valley reaching up to 88 degrees.

Starting on Sunday, temperatures will begin to climb. The Valley could see 100-degree temperatures while communities in the foothills may see highs in the low 90s.

By Tuesday, risk of heat-related illness will be high. The Valley could be as hot as 103 degrees while the foothills could hit 99 degrees.

Wednesday and Thursday are predicted to see the highest temperatures and highest risk of heat stroke. The Valley could reach a high of 105 degrees while the foothills could reach 100 degrees.

Overnight lows range from 65 to 75 degrees, offering little opportunity for significant cooling.

The weather service recommended that residents in the area of the excessive heat watch — which spans from Redding south into California’s Central Valley and includes most of the Bay Area — stay indoors as much as possible and stay hydrated.

Elderly residents, children and pets are at increased risk of heat stroke.

Most of Sacramento County is considered to be at high risk of heat-related illness, with only small corridor in the southeast considered at moderate risk.

This story was originally published May 23, 2020 at 2:12 PM.