A heat dome developing over the western U.S. could shatter temperature records this week, with highs reaching up to 119 degrees in parts of California.
In the coming days, strong high pressure will build throughout the atmosphere over the interior Southwest. This sinking air suppresses rainfall and intensifies heat, especially as the dry ground bakes under the sun.
The extreme heat is expected to worsen conditions across an already strained landscape, potentially fueling wildfires in California, Arizona and Utah — including the Gifford Fire, which has burned more than 83,000 acres in Los Padres National Forest, and the Dragon Bravo Fire, which has scorched over 130,000 acres on the Grand Canyon's North Rim.
How hot will it get near you?
The intense heat wave, expected to peak Thursday, Aug. 7, will push temperatures across Southern California well above 100 degrees, according to the National Weather Service office in San Diego.
Coastal areas are forecast to see highs between 78 and 87 degrees. Western valleys and inland Orange County will experience temperatures from 87 to 95 degrees. Inland valleys can expect highs ranging from 94 up to 104 degrees.
Mountain areas between 4,000 and 7,000 feet elevation will have temperatures between 84 and 95 degrees. The high desert region is expected to reach 99 to 106 degrees, while the low desert areas will be the hottest, with highs between 114 and 118 degrees.
Palm Springs could hit 118 degrees, according to the weather service, while Needles may reach 119 degrees — potentially surpassing its daily record of 117 degrees set in 2017.
National heat index map: How hot is it in your city?
The map below identifies areas where the heat index is forecast to reach NWS-defined levels from "Caution" (80 degrees Fahrenheit) to "Extreme Danger" (above 125 degrees).
The heat index measures how hot it actually feels when factoring for humidity. Prolonged exposure to a heat index above 80 degrees can lead to fatigue, as previously reported by USA TODAY. As it gets hotter, the risk continues to increase − potentially resulting in heat stroke or even death. Older adults, children, and outdoor workers are generally at higher risk of heat-related incidents.
What’s the difference between temperature and heat index?
The temperature is the actual air reading — what a thermometer records in the shade. The heat index, on the other hand, represents what it feels like to the human body when both temperature and humidity are factored in, according to the National Weather Service.
When humidity is high, sweat doesn’t evaporate as easily, making it harder for your body to cool down. That’s why the heat index is often higher than the air temperature, and why it’s used to gauge the risk of heat-related illness.
What are the symptoms of heat-related illness?
Extreme heat is the deadliest weather-related hazard in the United States, claiming more lives each year than hurricanes, floods or tornadoes.
Experts urge Texans to take precautions: stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, wear light clothing and check on vulnerable neighbors, including older people and those without air conditioning, throughout these next couple of weeks and into the summer.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are multiple types of heat-related illnesses. Heat cramps and heat rash can be treated by staying indoors and getting hydrated. But some others are more serious.
Heat exhaustion symptoms
Heat exhaustion is a mild heat-related illness that occurs in hot temperatures, especially when you’re not drinking enough water or other nonalcoholic fluids. People most at risk for heat exhaustion are the elderly, those with high blood pressure, and individuals working or exercising in the heat.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
Excessive thirst
Profuse sweating
Headache
Dizziness or confusion
Nausea
If you or anyone you’re with experiences these symptoms, move to a shaded or air-conditioned area, use a fan, or immerse in cool water. Also, drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages like water or sports drinks with electrolytes.
Heat stroke symptoms
Heat exhaustion can escalate into heat stroke, a serious, life-threatening condition. Heat stroke occurs when the body’s temperature rises rapidly, and it can no longer cool itself down.
Early symptoms of heat stroke are similar to heat exhaustion but progress to more severe signs, including:
Lack of sweating
Body temperature rising to 106°F or higher within 10-15 minutes (even without a thermometer, the skin will feel very hot)
Loss of consciousness
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect someone is experiencing it, seek immediate medical attention. Without emergency treatment, heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability.
Brandi Addison writes about weather across the country for the USA TODAY Network's Weather Connect. Reach her at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Heat dome over California could set records. How hot will it get?
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