Fresno, California – Triple-digit heat could return to the San Joaquin Valley by Monday afternoon, May 11, with Fresno carrying an 82 percent chance of tying or breaking its 100-degree record by 5 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, Bakersfield may reach 103 degrees Monday with a 16 percent chance of a record high and a 34 percent chance of a record warm low of 69 degrees. Fresno’s record high of 100 degrees holds an 82 percent probability of being tied or broken Monday, while Merced has a 60 percent chance of reaching or exceeding its 99-degree record.
Overnight cooling will be limited in urban areas.
By Tuesday, May 12, Bakersfield again approaches 103 degrees, while Fresno could near 102. Merced and Hanford each carry a 36 percent chance of record highs Tuesday. Record warm low temperatures are also possible, especially in Bakersfield and Merced, increasing cumulative heat stress.
Afternoon heat will peak between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., impacting outdoor workers along Highway 99 and agricultural operations across Kern, Fresno, and Merced counties.
What residents should do now: Limit outdoor activity during peak heat and hydrate frequently.
Elevated heat risk continues through Tuesday evening, May 12, with moderate to major heat illness risk for vulnerable groups. Temperatures ease slightly midweek but remain above seasonal averages.
