Heat Wave Alert: Northern California Forecast and Fire Danger – How to Stay Safe During Outages and Scorching Temperatures

Stockton, California – As wildfires rage on in Northern California, the threat of more blazes remains high amidst an ongoing heatwave. KCRA 3 issued an Alert Day for Wednesday due to the dangerous combination of extreme heat and increased fire risk, with Alert Days expected to continue through the weekend.

Authorities are working to restore power to Northern California customers following public safety shutoffs conducted by Pacific Gas & Electric Co. Approximately 2,200 customers are still without power as of Wednesday morning, excluding those in areas de-energized for firefighter safety in the Thompson Fire in Butte County. Multiple fires are still active across the region, with evacuations in place near Oroville for the Thompson Fire and south of Placerville for the Moccasin Fire in El Dorado County.

In terms of weather, temperatures in downtown Sacramento soared to 106 degrees on Tuesday and are projected to reach 110 degrees on Wednesday. Meteorologist Heather Waldman mentioned the easing of north winds on Wednesday afternoon, with a light breeze expected in the evening to provide some relief. Looking ahead to the Fourth of July, temperatures are forecasted to climb rapidly, reaching 90 degrees by 10 a.m. and peaking between 104 and 109 degrees in the afternoon.

The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning set to expire at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, indicating conditions conducive to wildfire ignition and rapid spread. This warning underscores the ongoing fire threat in the region amidst the challenging weather conditions. Responding to the heightened fire risk, Oroville has canceled its Fourth of July fireworks display and implemented a ban on safe-and-sane fireworks. Public safety remains a top priority as authorities work to manage the multiple fire incidents across Northern California.

As the heatwave persists and wildfires continue to pose a threat, residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions. Resources such as cooling centers and safety tips are available to help individuals cope with the extreme weather conditions. Additionally, heightened awareness and proactive measures are crucial to safeguard against potential fire hazards during this challenging period. Stay updated on the latest developments and guidance from local authorities to ensure the well-being and safety of communities affected by the evolving situation.