Coachella Valley residents were being warned to take precautions against the heat as a ridge of high pressure is expected to send temperatures soaring way past the century mark across the desert areas through next week, forecasters said.
The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning through 8 p.m. Monday for the Coachella Valley and the San Gorgonio Pass.
Saturday’s highs were expected to be 119 degrees in Palm Springs, 118 degrees in Thermal, 101 degrees in Hemet, 101 degrees in Lake Elsinore, and 97 degrees in Riverside, according to the NWS.
A heat advisory will also be in place through 8 p.m. Monday for the valleys and mountains.
“Extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities. Warm overnight temperatures will compound heat stress for those without adequate cooling,” the NWS said.
People were advised to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors.
The county last month opened cooling centers in multiple locations, where residents without air-conditioning are able to take a break during daylight hours. A complete list is available at www.capriverside.org/cool-centers.
A statewide Flex Alert will be in effect Saturday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. in hopes of reducing strain on the electrical system.
Meanwhile, firefighters will be on high alert as the high heat, low daytime humidity and gusty winds will create elevated fire weather conditions in the afternoons and evenings near and below the desert passes, forecasters said.
Temperatures will begin to return to normal ranges on Tuesday, the NWS said.