Dangerous desert heat peaking through Friday

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The Desert Southwest is facing one of the most intense heat waves of the summer, with temperatures climbing well above seasonal averages across Yuma, Imperial, and the surrounding counties.

An Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect through Friday at 8:00 p.m., as an unusually strong high-pressure ridge continues to dominate the region.

Highs are expected to soar into the 115 to 118 degree range, nearly ten degrees above normal for early August and near-record breaking for cities like Yuma and El Centro.

According to the National Weather Service, the peak of the heat is expected today into Thursday, with only slight relief by Friday as the ridge begins to weaken.

Even then, highs will still hover between 109 and 113 degrees, and added humidity could make conditions feel just as oppressive.

For now, rain chances remain slim, with only isolated showers possible over far eastern Arizona's high terrain.

By the weekend, some slightly better moisture may drift into the region, though measurable rain remains unlikely in lower desert areas like Yuma and Imperial Counties.

Extreme heat risk is expected to remain at major to extreme levels, which means everyone is at risk especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly, outdoor workers, and those without adequate cooling

We'll continue to monitor the evolving heat threat and update you with the latest conditions both on-air and online.