Hanford, California – A slow-building heatwave could push San Joaquin Valley temperatures into the triple digits starting Friday, with some cities facing a 30–35% chance of highs above 100°F through the weekend and into early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, the risk of hitting 100°F spikes sharply on Friday and Saturday, particularly in Visalia (35%), Fresno (35%), and Hanford (30%). While Bakersfield shows a slightly lower peak at 25% on Friday, the chance jumps again to 25% by Tuesday, August 5.
Visalia and Fresno lead the region in heat probability, with consistent 30%+ chances Friday through Sunday. Madera and Merced show a slower climb, peaking at 15% on Sunday. The central valley heat comes as seasonal monsoon activity remains minimal, allowing high pressure to dominate and daytime temperatures to surge.
Residents are urged to limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable individuals, especially the elderly and young children. Drivers should never leave pets or people in parked cars, even for a few minutes.
This warming trend is expected to persist into early next week. Additional heat advisories may be issued if confidence in triple-digit highs increases.
