Weather
Central Valley Heat: Near 100° Possible Next Week
Hanford, CA – An October heat wave will bring unusually high temperatures to California through much of next week, with the Central Valley facing moderate to major HeatRisk.
By Nora Whitfield · 2026-10-03T14:26:27.546Z
Hanford, CA – An October heat wave will bring unusually high temperatures to California through much of next week, with the Central Valley facing moderate to major HeatRisk.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford and a Weather Prediction Center briefing issued Friday, Oct. 2, temperatures are expected to run 15 to 20 degrees above normal in parts of California. The heat will affect coastal Southern California, the Bay Area and Central Valley through next week.
In the Central Valley, afternoon temperatures could approach 100 degrees in some locations. Coastal areas could climb well into the 90s.
Forecasters expect major to extreme HeatRisk in portions of California, with several daily high temperature records potentially challenged or broken this weekend and well into next week.
The heat will also extend beyond the afternoon hours. Overnight temperatures in the mid to upper 70s are expected in the Los Angeles and San Diego urban areas, providing limited nighttime relief.
The NWS Hanford office said moderate to major HeatRisk is expected in the Central Valley this weekend and well into next week. HeatRisk reflects the potential for heat related impacts, including risks for people without adequate cooling or hydration.
Forecasters recommend staying hydrated, limiting sun exposure and using air conditioning or cooling centers when needed. Children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles because interior temperatures can become dangerous within minutes.
The heat is expected to persist through much of next week, with forecasts showing elevated temperatures and HeatRisk through at least Friday, Oct. 9.