Excessive Heat Blankets Western U.S. (Credit: Meteorologist Jessica Olsen)

Image Courtesy: TwisterData.com

DISCUSSION: With the upcoming work week, the major conversation will be the possible record warmth setting up in the Pacific West. This is all attributed to a strong upper-level ridge setting up over California, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.
 
A meridional flow will take precedence to bring steamy weather to the western United States. This warmth should bring some concern to the western states as some records may be broken as we start the first week of August.

​Currently a large portion of northern California is under and excessive heat watch, excessive heat warning and heat advisories. Western Nevada is currently under a heat advisory while western Oregon under excessive heat watch, excessive heat warning and heat advisories. Southwest Washington experiencing several excessive heat watches.
 
California’s interior, western Nevada and Oregon can expect to see temperatures in the triple digits, even topping 110 in the afternoon is a possibility for Tuesday. This dangerous combination of above average hot temperatures and increased humidity would make for heightened heat related illnesses. The National Weather Service advises to practice heat safety by:
 
*Remaining hydrated with breaks in the shade as often as possible when at job sites
*Check in on the elderly, sick and those without air conditioning
*Never leave kids or pets unattended in a vehicle
*Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated if outdoors
 
With prolonged heat expected to impact these areas with dangerous temperatures, heat related illnesses are likely. Monday through Thursday are expected to be the most difficult and record setting with the likelihood for little recovery in overnight temperatures.
 
For more information on record warmth impacting your area visit the Global Weather and Climate Center.
 
© Meteorologist Jessica Olsen