Sacramento Bakes As Triple-Digit Blast And North Winds Turn Up The Heat

Sacramento is cranking the thermostat way up Thursday, June 11, with early morning temps in the low 70s expected to rocket into the lower 100s by late afternoon, topping out near 102°F. The National Weather Service is warning that a nasty combo of gusty north winds and bone-dry air will push fire danger higher and make it downright risky to be outside for long stretches through the weekend.

Afternoon Winds Pick Up

According to NWS Sacramento, a Red Flag Warning remains in place through 5 p.m. Thursday, June 11, across portions of the central and northern Sacramento Valley. Forecasters are calling for north winds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 30 to 40 mph along the western valley. On top of that, a Heat Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. Thursday, June 11, through 11 p.m. Saturday, June 13, with daytime humidity dropping into the single digits to teens and only limited recovery overnight.

Tonight And The Weekend

Relief will be hard to come by after sunset. Lows are expected to stall in the low 60s Thursday night, June 11, keeping things warm even after dark. Triple-digit highs return Friday, June 12, and Saturday, June 13, with Friday forecast near 100°F and Saturday close behind near 99°F, before a small cooldown brings highs back to the mid-90s on Sunday, June 14.

Where To Cool Off

Sacramento County has opened a hot-weather respite at the North A Street shelter at 1400 N. A St. through Saturday. Residents can call 211 or 916-498-1000 to check on space and get help with access. Local coverage of the shelter opening is available from The Sacramento Bee.

What To Do Now

If you have to be outdoors, drink water often, take regular shade breaks, and try to avoid heavy activity between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., when conditions will be at their worst. Where the Red Flag Warning is in effect, hold off on outdoor burning or grilling to avoid sparking a fire. Check in on older neighbors, kids, and pets, and if possible, move outdoor work to the early morning or evening to cut down on heat exposure.