Record-Breaking Heat this Independence Day in the Central Valley

FRESNO, Calif. ( KGPE ) – High temperatures soared across the Valley today to be near 110°. For a couple of Valley locations, record-high temperatures were tied or broken.

Here’s a look at the July 4 record high temperatures before today.

Going into July 4, the record high in Fresno was 112 degrees. In Madera, the record high of 108 degrees had been reached three times in history. In Merced, 108 degrees had occurred twice on July 4, and in Hanford, a scorching 112 degrees was the record.

The high temperatures are in, and Madera broke the record today by reaching 109 degrees. Merced tied the record at 108 degrees.

These extremely hot temperatures are here to stay. Highs will remain near and even above 110 degrees through the weekend and into next week. The excessive heat warning remains in effect until at least 11 p.m. next Thursday, July 11.

More record-high temperatures will be in jeopardy this weekend. Temperatures will finally start to drop slightly throughout next week, but for now, there is no end in sight for this triple-digit stretch.

The heat isn’t the only issue for Independence Day. There is increased fire danger as well. A red flag warning is in effect until noon Friday. Along with the heat, the relative humidity is low, and the wind is picking up this evening. Expect wind gusts up to 30 mph this evening.

This fire risk, combined with fireworks, is a recipe for fast-spreading grass fires.

The air quality is being impacted as well. Area wildfires, the heat, and fireworks are leading to poor AQ around Central California. Here is the air quality forecast for Friday. It is encouraged to limit outdoor activities on Friday.

Please stay safe this Independence Day, and enjoy the festivities.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.