Stifling heat to bear down on Northern California next week; Hottest temperatures to hit Tues-Fri

A modest warming trend is expected as an upper trough weakens over Northern California.Photo byNWS

Seasonably warm temperatures and breezy conditions will continue through the weekend, but a significant heat wave is expected next week, posing serious risks for outdoor holiday events. The National Weather Service (NWS) Sacramento office warns of triple-digit temperatures and very warm overnight lows, with major to extreme heat risks predicted.

A modest warming trend is expected as an upper trough weakens over Northern California. Highs in the Valley will approach the century mark, with the marine layer bringing some breezes and overnight cooling to the Delta and southern Sacramento Valley. A short wave passing through far northern California on Sunday poses a minimal thunderstorm threat.

Key Warnings

• Excessive Heat Watch: In effect for the Valley, Delta, and foothills from Tuesday morning through Friday evening. Expect long-duration heat with temperatures between 100 and 105 degrees.
• Fire Weather Watch: Issued for the western side of the northern and central Sacramento Valley and adjacent elevations below 3000 feet from Tuesday morning into the evening. Breezy north winds and low humidity will elevate fire weather conditions, particularly from Monday through Wednesday.

Strong, anomalous ridging is expected to build into Northern California from the eastern Pacific, leading to a major heat event next week. Daytime temperatures across the Valley will be in the 100 to 105 range by Monday, resulting in widespread moderate heat risk. The combination of high temperatures, low humidity, and breezy north winds will bring critical fire weather conditions to the region.