Records Fall As Dangerous Heatwave Lingers

PALM SPRINGS, CA —Record high temperatures were reported in San Jacinto for the second day in a row and a triple-digit heat wave will continue throughout the week in Riverside County, with an excessive heat warning in effect Thursday until at least 9 p.m. Friday in the Coachella Valley, Banning and Desert Hot Springs areas.

It was 109 in San Jacinto on Thursday, breaking the record high for the day of 107 set in 2012. It was 107 in San Jacinto on Tuesday, tying a record high for the day set in 2002.

National Weather Service forecasters said temperatures of 115 to 122 degrees are possible in the affected area.

Another excessive heat warning will be in place until 9 p.m. Thursday in the Riverside County valleys, which include the cities of Corona, Riverside and Moreno Valley. Those areas could see "dangerously hot conditions" with temperatures ranging from the upper 90s to around 110.

Temperatures in the deserts, mountains and eastern valleys ran slightly cooler due to low-level moisture and dew points in the 60s, according to the National Weather Service.

But things quickly heated back up, and according to the NWS. Wednesday was the hottest day of the week when temperatures exceeding 100 degrees. Triple digits highs are in the forecast through Friday in the city of Riverside.

Riverside County mountains will be under a heat advisory until 9 p.m. Thursday, with temperatures possibly reaching 104.

City-operated cooling centers remain open at Demuth Community Center, James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center and the Palm Springs Public Library. For more information, residents can visit EngagePalmSprings.com.

Similar highs were forecast for Coachella and Indio. Coachella Valley officials urged residents to take precautions such as limiting outdoor activity, remaining indoors in air-conditioned buildings, wearing loose and light-colored clothing, taking cool showers or baths and drinking lots of water.

"During times of extreme heat, it is imperative to ensure your own safety as well as those around you," said Riverside County public health officer Dr. Geoffrey Leung in a statement. "If you know anyone who is susceptible to heat-related illness, like older adults and those with chronic health conditions, check on their well-being and ensure they have the means to remain cool."

With heat-related illnesses on the rise, forecasters echoed Leung's message, advising people to avoid leaving young children or pets in unattended vehicles and check-up on those susceptible to the heat.

"Take this heat seriously, even if you're healthy," Leung said. "Just a few precautions can help you stay safe. Even remaining outdoors for short periods of time can negatively impact your health."

City News Service