MOUNTAIN AREA — The National Weather Service in Hanford has issued an Excessive Heat Watch, which is in effect from Friday afternoon through Monday evening.
The warning has been issued for the Central San Joaquin Valley and Mariposa, Madera and Fresno County Foothills including the cities of Oakhurst and Mariposa, and surrounding areas.
High temperatures are predicted to be warming into the upper 90s to lower 100s on Friday, June 16, then 100 to 110 over the weekend of June 17 and 18, and into early next week.
The NWS warns that prolonged exposure to these temperatures, especially after a period of unseasonably cool temperatures, 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 risk for hypothermia, and water rescues.
- Pets, crops, and livestock may also require extra care through the hot weather.
An Excessive Heat Watch means that a prolonged period of hot temperatures is expected. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are possible. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
