WEATHER ALERT: Extreme heat for the weekend

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY-TV) - An Excessive Heat Warning is in effect for the entire Desert Southwest until next Tuesday as a widespread Major Heat Risk increases to Extreme Heat Risk this weekend.

A strong subtropical ridge will continue to dominate the Desert Southwest, allowing very hot temperatures to continue.

As the ridge expands west-northwestward, drier air will return this weekend resulting in even hotter temperatures through early next week.

Remember excessive heat is very dangerous and could even be deadly, so make sure to know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness and take action when necessary.

Temperatures are staying hot and breezy conditions will also continue, stronger winds will be expected in Imperial Valley where highest gusts could reach 30 MPH before lighter winds join for Friday.

The Imperial County APCD has issued an Air Quality Alert for the Imperial Valley due to high levels of ozone (smog) until 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. Friday.

By the weekend, Yuma and El Centro could tie or break records for both daytime highs and overnight

lows in the coming days.