Hanford, California – Heat will dominate central California this weekend as temperatures in Hanford rise to near 97°F by Friday, July 18, with highs close to 99°F expected by Sunday. Local residents, especially those traveling along Highway 198 or working outdoors, should prepare for prolonged exposure to intense sun and stagnant air.
According to the National Weather Service, Hanford will see sunny skies and calm northwest winds Friday through early next week. Friday’s high reaches 97°F with temperatures continuing to rise through Saturday (98°F) and Sunday (99°F), before settling in the low 90s by Tuesday and Wednesday. Northwest winds around 5 to 10 mph offer little relief, and overnight lows will stay warm — hovering near 68°F through Monday night.
Drivers should take precautions on sun-exposed routes like Highway 198 and avoid leaving pets or electronics in parked vehicles. With no clouds or rain expected, energy use for air conditioning will likely spike. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and check on vulnerable neighbors.
This heatwave marks the region’s most intense stretch of summer so far, but relief may come midweek. By Tuesday and Wednesday, July 22–23, highs will drop slightly to the low 90s, still sunny but with calmer evenings.
⚠️ No advisories are currently issued, but conditions are ripe for heat-related illnesses. Stay weather-aware through the weekend.
☀️ Five-Day Forecast for Hanford, CA (Starting Friday, July 18):
- Friday: Sunny, high 97°F. Winds WNW 5 mph.
- Saturday: Sunny, high 98°F. Overnight low 68°F.
- Sunday: Sunny, high 99°F. Winds NW 5 mph.
- Monday: Sunny, high 96°F. Gusts up to 15 mph.
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 93°F. Continued calm weather into Wednesday.
