A severe heat wave is currently affecting large parts of California, with temperatures breaking the 100 degree mark in many areas. The heat wave has led to excessive heat warnings and advisories across much of the state.
One of the hardest hit areas is Palm Springs, which saw its all-time high temperature broken on Friday when it reached an astonishing 124 degrees. Fresno is also forecast to reach a high of 116 degrees on Sunday.
Some relief is expected for coastal areas as the heat dome that settled over the west moves east. According to AccuWeather meteorologist Elizabeth Danco, temperatures in cities near the Pacific coast, including San Francisco and Oakland, are expected to dip to near historical averages for July.
However, extreme heat is not the only concern for Californians as wildfire risk also remains high. Heat warnings are in place for much of L.A. County's valleys, deserts, and Santa Monica Mountains.
The Thompson fire continues to burn across more than 3,500 acres north of Sacramento.
Redding hit a new all-time high temperature record on July 6 with temperatures reaching an unprecedented 119 degrees. This is the hottest day ever recorded by the National Weather Service in Redding.
Homes and cabins in Northern California may not have air conditioning, making the heat wave even more challenging for residents. Temperatures are expected to jump back up on Wednesday and Thursday before cooling down again.
California firefighters are working tirelessly to contain ongoing fires in Butte and Mariposa counties. Weather conditions remain challenging as the heat wave worsens conditions for both the fires and the firefighters.
