First Alert Weather Alert this week for dangerous heatwave
WHY THE FIRST ALERT WEATHER ALERT:
Excessive heat continues for much of the Desert Southwest to end the weekend. We set records Thursday, Friday, and Saturday for multiple valley locations. This ridge is slowly weakening but still bringing extreme heat through Father's Day weekend.
That ridge is also pulling moisture up from the Southeast, so dew points are higher than normal and humidity values are uncomfortable. Dew point temperatures are ranging between 50-55° this Sunday morning. Evaporative coolers are likely to struggle in efficiency as well. Cooling centers are open throughout the Valley, don't hesitate to use them!
An Excessive Heat Warning remains in effect for the Coachella Valley through 9:00 p.m. Sunday, with highs expected to climb near 120° on the valley floor. These continuous hot temperatures will create dangerous conditions for an extended period next week, especially for those who work outdoors.
Because of the widespread dangers associated with the prolonged heat, the First Alert Weather team has issued a First Alert Weather Alert to coincide with the timing of the Excessive Heat Warning.
For the coming week, the ridge will weaken and a trough of low pressure will allow for some cooling to filter in Temperatures will reposition closer to average before more heat moves in next weekend.
What can you do during the heatwave?
Limit your exposure outside, walk pets early in the day or late in the evening to avoid hot pavement and burnt paws, stay hydrated, and check on the young and elderly (both age groups have trouble regulating body heat).
We won't begin to feel any relief from this heatwave until next week, when temperature drop closer to average.
RECORDS:
PALM SPRINGS
Tuesday record (06/15): 116° (1961) -- NEW RECORD OF 120° (2021)
Wednesday record (06/16): 118° (1993)
Thursday record (06/17): 116° (1961) -- NEW RECORD 123° (2021) TIES ALL-TIME RECORD
Friday record (06/18): 117° (2017) -- NEW RECORD 119° (2021)
Saturday record (06/19): 119 (2017) -- NEW TIED RECORD 119° (2021)
Saturday record (06/19): 119° (2016, 2017) -- TIED
THERMAL
Tuesday record (06/15): 118° (1961)
Wednesday record (06/16): 115° (1974)
Thursday record (06/17): 114° (2008) -- NEW RECORD 118° (2021)
Friday record (06/18): 119° (2015) -- TIED RECORD 119° (2021)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
The drought is worsening across the Golden State. Three months ago, the state was reporting 'exceptional drought' conditions at 3.75%. That number is now up to 33.32%. If you'd like to read about the latest Drought Monitor further, click here.
Download the 'KESQ First Alert' Weather App to be sure you have the latest forecast information to keep you and your family safe. It's FREE! Click here.
