Merced high temperatures rise past 100

It’s going to be hot in Merced and much of the San Joaquin Valley during the next few days, when temperatures are expected to reach triple digits, according to forecasts.

Thermometers climbed past the century mark on Tuesday in Merced, and Wednesday could reach 106 degrees, according to the National Weather Service in Hanford.

A high-pressure system, the usual culprit for heat in the summer, has been moving this way. “It had been farther to the east, the Four Corners area,” meteorologist Jim Bagnall said. “It’s been moving west.”

Thursday’s high is expected to drop slightly, though it is forecast to remain above 100 before dropping to the high 90s later in the week.

The system moving toward the Valley is carrying some moisture, Bagnall said, which has led to afternoon showers in the Sierras and higher humidity in Merced. “That does cause it to feel more uncomfortable even if the temperature stays the same,” he said.

Any amount of rain is good news for a very dry California. But rainstorms can bring lightning, bad news for dry grass that could catch fire.

Though the few days forecast with triple digits are not enough to trigger an official warning, Bagnall said people should take care.

He said drinking plenty of water is important to staying healthy. It’s recommended that people do their outdoor exercise early, before the sun comes up, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun whenever possible.

Leaving animals or children in a car is always a bad idea, he said, but it is particularly dangerous when temperatures are so high.

Animal advocates also remind pet owners to supply animals with enough water and shade, as well as to be aware of hot pavement on bare pet paws.

This story was originally published June 30, 2015 at 5:35 PM with the headline "Merced high temperatures rise past 100."