Tracking a sunny but warm week ahead

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The heat is sticking around across the region as temperatures remain near 100 degrees today, with even warmer conditions expected by the middle of the week.

A strong ridge of high pressure continues to dominate the Desert Southwest, keeping skies sunny and rain chances at zero across both Yuma and Imperial Counties.

Yuma and El Centro are both expected to reach around 102°F this afternoon, with both cities expected to warm to around 103°F on Tuesday.

While temperatures are tracking to remain steady through Monday, a slight increase is expected across southeast California and southwest Arizona during the middle of the week.

As temperatures climb, an Extreme Heat Watch is now in effect for Yuma and Imperial Counties from Wednesday morning through Thursday evening.

Afternoon temperatures could reach between 104°F and 107°F during that period, bringing a Major Heat Risk and an increased threat for heat-related illnesses.

Dry conditions are expected to continue through the upcoming week, with zero rain chances in the forecast.

The other big story today is the wind. Wind speeds between 20 and 35 miles per hour are expected to peak this morning, with occasional gusts reaching around 40 miles per hour.

The strongest gusts are expected across higher terrain and northern and western Yuma County before winds gradually decrease through the afternoon and early evening.

Yuma could still see gusts up to 30 miles per hour Monday, while winds are expected to be lighter across Imperial County.