Excessive heat warning

Imperial County and Yuma County could get 116 degrees in June - 13 On Your Side's Arlette Yousif reports

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA/KECY) - An excessive heat warning is on the radar as temperatures are leaping from 100 to a possible 116 degrees.

The heat up is expected to begin Thursday and last through Sunday.

The Yuma Fire Department (YFD) says hydration is critical in this extreme heat.

“If you’re experiencing headache, nausea, weakness, extreme sweating, extreme thirst… you know, those are all signs, early stages of heat illness," says Yuma Fire Department Public Information Officer Mike Erfert.

Erfert says it’s important to stay away from caffeine, drinks with a lot of sugar, and especially alcohol when there is excessive heat.

The heat may change plans for some locals.

“Stay in or try to get an early walk before the heat gets worse, and if it’s too bad, I’m just gonna skip it,” explains Yuma local Rosa Duran.

YFD says planning outdoor activities for the early morning instead of mid-day is a good swap.

“Making sure that you’re staying hydrated, and also, plan your day around your physical exertion. If you’re gonna be outside, make that early in the day and not [in] the heat of the day. Keep alert to those signs and symptoms on other people around you,” says Erfert.

Erfert says anyone with health conditions, the elderly, and children should be extra cautious during the high temperatures.

YFD says if you feel thirsty, you’re likely already dehydrated.