MOUNTAIN AREA — The National Weather Service in Hanford has upgraded the previously issued heat watch to an Excessive Heat Warning starting at noon on Sunday, June 18 to 11 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20.
Meanwhile, in Yosemite, heat will cause snow to melt and waters to rise.
The Excessive Heat Warning is for the San Joaquin Valley and Mariposa, Madera, and Fresno County Foothills, including the cities of Oakhurst and Mariposa.
Daytime high temperatures are predicted to fall between 104 and 110 degrees.
Prolonged exposure to these temperatures, especially after a period of unseasonably cool weather, will increase the risk of heat related illnesses. Children, the elderly, and people with chronic ailments are the most susceptible to heat-related illness. Heat exhaustion, cramps, or in extreme cases, heat stroke can result from prolonged exposure to these conditions.
Area waterways are running very cold and fast, increasing the risk for hypothermia, and water rescues. Pets, crops, and livestock may also require extra care through the hot weather.
The NWS advises extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
An Excessive Heat Warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. Hot temperatures will create a dangerous in which heat illnesses are likely.
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Stay in an air-conditioned room
- Stay out of the sun
- Check up on relatives and neighbors.
Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
Meanwhile, in Yosemite, the Pohono Bridge is forecast to reach flood stage Sunday night, according to a hydrologic outlook published by the National Weather Service. The combination of above-normal temperatures and rapidly melting snow over the high elevations of the Sierra during the next several days will bring an increase in water levels and flows along rivers and streams.
The California-Nevada River Forecast Center says the upper Merced River in Yosemite will peak near or slightly above flood stage at Pohono Bridge by late Sunday night.
Visitors to Yosemite National Park should closely monitor weather conditions for updated forecasts, flood warnings and flood statements for the upper Merced River.
