An unusually strong high-pressure system began driving up temperatures across the region Monday, beginning what is expected to be a week of “dangerously” hot conditions that could set daily or monthly records for March heat.
The National Weather Service issued an extreme heat warning that will be in effect from 10 a.m. Wednesday through 8 p.m. Saturday for the Coachella Valley and San Gorgonio Pass near Banning, with temperatures of 104 to 112 degrees expected — possibly reaching a couple degrees higher on Thursday and Friday, with lows falling only into the mid-70s.
“High temperatures this week will be 20 to 30 degrees above normal for this time of year,” according to the NWS. “Record breaking heat is likely.”
A less severe heat advisory will be in effect from 10 a.m. Wednesday through 8 p.m. Friday for Riverside County mountains, with highs in the 90s possible below 4,500 feet and into the 80s at higher elevations. A heat advisory is already in place and will remain in effect until 8 p.m. Friday for coastal areas, where highs could reach into the 90s, and San Diego County valleys, where temperatures in the triple digits are possible.
“Most days this week have the potential for daily temperature records to be broken or tied, with the potential for monthly temperature records to be broken or tied Wednesday through Friday,” forecasters said.
According to the NWS, daily and monthly temperature records are expected to be broken or tied in areas such as Idyllwild, Palm Springs and Borrego Springs.
“Overnight lows will also be elevated, which will limit overnight relief from the heat,” forecasters said. “The currently forecast low temperatures for Idyllwild of 64 for both Friday and Saturday would be the earliest for such a warm low temperature at Idyllwild by almost three months, the current earliest date for such a warm low temperature being June 16th (2021).”
The NWS urged residents to “drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.”
“Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes. Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”
Cal/OSHA urged employers to take precautions to protect workers as temperatures rise across the state.
“This is one of the first heat waves of the year, with temperatures rising above the seasonal average,” the agency said in a statement. “Employees may not yet be acclimatized to high heat and may need additional breaks and interventions when they adapt to the conditions. Cal/OSHA reminds employers to be vigilant, especially with newer employees, and ensure that employees have shade, water and rest breaks to prevent heat illness.”
Cooling centers throughout Riverside County can be found at countyofriverside.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=5ffaf74e67244b829796eeb8df6bc6a7.