Merced County breaks all-time heat record as extreme temperatures bake Central Valley
The blazing heat blistering Merced and the Central Valley climbed high enough Tuesday to break not just the Sept. 6 record, but set the all-time high for temperatures ever recorded at the Merced Yosemite Regional Airport, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters’ predictions of a 115 degree peak proved true, soaring past the prior high of 108 degrees in 1904.
For context, Death Valley National Park, known as the hottest place on earth and driest spot in North America, clocked in at 124 degrees around the same time.
The scorching heat also ascended past the hottest recorded temperature ever for Merced. The prior all-time high of 114 degrees was measured in 1902, 1905 and 1925.
Briefly, NWS measurements recorded temperatures as extreme as 117 degrees at the Merced airport. But the heat didn’t last long enough to constitute an official daytime high, according to the NWS.
Rolling blackouts are possible throughout the state due to the strain on the power grid.
Although the heat is projected to descend slightly in the coming days, forecasters say it won’t be enough to offer respite from the dangerous high temperatures.
Wednesday’s forecast projects a high of 109 degrees, only declining slightly to 108 Thursday and 107 Friday. It’s possible more daily heat records could be set in the coming days.
An excessive heat warning originally set by the NWS to expire Wednesday was extended through Friday evening as a result of the dangerously high temperatures.
Exacerbating the scorching daytime temperatures are nighttime lows that dip to only the mid 70-degree range. Warm nights offer overheated residents little time to recover from the heat before the next day’s temperatures rise anew. Individuals lacking access to air conditioning are especially susceptible.
Merced residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid exposure to the heat outdoors and stay out of hot cars. When going outside, individuals should wear loose and light colored clothing, as well as avoid high energy activities during peak heat in the midday hours.
Children and pets shouldn’t be left in vehicles for any period of time, even with the windows down.
A list of cooling centers is available from the Merced County Office of Emergency Services.
The 100-plus degree weather is expected to cool down to the high 90s over the weekend, but it’s possible the heatwave will persist longer than currently projected. Forecasters say relief will likely arrive by the end of the weekend or start of next week, bringing temperatures down to the low 90s.
This story was originally published September 6, 2022 at 6:56 PM.
