Weather Service Elevates Heat Wave Warning For Coachella Valley

COACHELLA VALLEY, CA — The National Weather Service on Thursday issued an excessive heat warning for the Coachella Valley and the San Gorgonio Pass Area that begins at 9 a.m. Saturday.

The area has been under a heat advisory, but on Thursday afternoon the NWS said conditions will get hotter beginning this weekend and lasting through 8 p.m. Monday.

In the Coachella Valley, "dangerously hot conditions" are forecast with daytime high temperatures of 116 to 121, the NWS said. In the Pass Area, daytimes highs will hit 105 to 113.

"Extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities," the NWS warned.

People are asked to check up on relatives and neighbors, and the agency said young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

The Coachella Valley has reported human and pet deaths attributed to the recent heat waves.