Dry heat builds as Yuma and Imperial Counties warm back up
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - After a mild and somewhat cooler start to the week, the familiar desert heat is making a return across Yuma and Imperial Counties.
Temperatures have been sitting just a few degrees below normal, but that brief stretch of relief won't last much longer.
Forecasters with the National Weather Service say a gradual warming trend is already underway and will continue through the weekend.
Highs are expected to climb back into the upper 100s, pushing conditions back to near or slightly above seasonal averages. By Friday and Saturday, most areas across the lower deserts will see afternoon temperatures ranging from 106 to 109 degrees.
With the rising heat, the risk for heat-related illness also begins to increase. While not at excessive levels, moderate heat risk is expected across the region, especially during the late afternoon hours.
This is typical for late July, but it's a timely reminder that outdoor safety remains important. Staying hydrated and finding shade during peak heat hours will be key for anyone spending extended time outside.
Humidity levels are also expected to drop significantly through the second half of the week. By the weekend, afternoon relative humidity could fall as low as five to 10%, creating even drier conditions than what's been felt so far.
Poor overnight humidity recovery means the nights will stay warm and dry as well, offering little in the way of relief once the sun goes down.
Winds will remain fairly typical for this time of year, with light breezes in the morning giving way to occasional afternoon gusts. In the Imperial Valley, some localized gusts could reach up to 25 miles per hour, but no major wind events are expected.
So while the start of the week may have felt like a break from the usual July heat, residents should prepare for hotter, drier days ahead.
The return of intense sunshine and low humidity will once again define weather conditions across the region.
Stay safe, stay cool, and continue checking back for the latest local forecasts.
