This is a developing situation. Updated information will be published at the top of this article.
MENDOCINO Co., 7/12/23 — The second heatwave of the year arrives this weekend starting Fri. July 14. The National Weather Service Eureka (NWS Eureka) is forecasting temperatures to soar across the region, with parts of inland Mendocino County anticipated to reach 110 degrees in some areas. Here’s an overview of what to expect.
The extreme heat increases the likelihood of heat-related illnesses, especially for those working or participating in outdoor activities, as well as the young, elderly, pets, and plants. We have a list of tips and resources at the bottom of this article on how to be safe during heatwaves.
NWS Eureka has issued an excessive heat watch for a large portion of eastern and northern Mendocino County, including Covelo, Willits, Laytonville and Ukiah. Our neighbors in Lake and Trinity counties are also under the watch. The watch is in effect from 11 a.m. Fri. July 14 through 8 p.m. Sun. July 16. An excessive heat watch is issued when conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event in the next 24 to 72 hours.
According to NWS Eureka, the areas under the watch will experience “dangerously hot conditions” that “will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses.” The hottest day of the week will be Saturday, which could see temperatures as high as 110 degrees in Covelo and 108 degrees in Hopland.
The hottest area in Mendocino County will be Covelo, which will experience triple digit temperatures ranging from 103 degrees starting Friday, 110 degrees on Saturday and 108 degrees on Sunday with overnight temperatures averaging in the low 60s. Ukiah and Hopland will experience temperatures ranging from 102 to 107 degrees, while Willits and Laytonville can expect temperatures between 92 degrees and 100 degrees Friday through Sunday.
Given the high temperatures, it’s likely many interior residents will head to the Mendocino Coast to enjoy nature’s air conditioning. Fort Bragg can expect sunny and cool weather in the low 60s and Point Arena the mid 60s throughout the weekend.
Mendocino County Public Health has not opened cooling stations as of publication. Additionally, PG&E is not anticipating any public safety power shutoffs. We will update this article if that changes.
Finally, the National Interagency Fire Center is predicting “moderate risk” for wildfire potential from Sat. July 15 through Mon. July 17. Learn how to prepare for and prevent wildfires here.
Due to the diverse weather conditions of North Coast microclimates, hyperlocal weather may vary. You can check the weather forecast for your neighborhood or travel destination here.
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