Extreme Heat Warnings continue through Tuesday

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The desert heat isn't letting up any time soon.

The National Weather Service says Extreme Heat Warnings remain in effect through Tuesday evening for Yuma County and Imperial County as temperatures hover near dangerous levels.

Afternoon highs will range from 110 to 115 degrees across both counties through the weekend, with only slight relief overnight.

That combination is driving what forecasters call a major heat risk conditions that can be dangerous even for those in good health if precautions aren't taken.

While temperatures may dip a couple degrees over the weekend, the heat will stay well above normal. Yuma is expected to see highs around 110–112 degrees, while Imperial could hit 113–114 degrees before warming slightly again Monday and Tuesday.

The intense heat follows a stretch of record or near-record temperatures across the Southwest. Friday's high in Yuma came close to the August 8 record of 115 degrees set in 1940, while El Centro's record of 115 degrees was set in 2012.

According the hot pattern is being fueled by a strong ridge of high pressure over the Southwest, with only minor weakening over the weekend. That ridge is keeping rain chances away from the lower deserts any showers or storms will stay over Arizona's eastern mountains.

Relief could be on the horizon late next week, as weather models hint at a shift in the high-pressure system that could allow tropical moisture to stream into the region.

If that happens, it could bring higher humidity, a better shot at thunderstorms, and slightly cooler temperatures by next weekend.