Dangerous heat grips the region with record temperatures expected

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - A major heat wave is settling in across the desert Southwest, bringing dangerously high temperatures to both Yuma and the Imperial Valley through the weekend.

Afternoon highs are soaring well above the century mark, with some areas expected to reach between 105 and 108 degrees at the peak of the heat.

An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect, with conditions posing a serious risk for heat-related illnesses, especially during the afternoon and early evening hours.

Officials urge residents to limit time outdoors, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable populations including the elderly and young children.

The hottest days are expected to be Thursday through Saturday, when temperatures could challenge or even break daily records.

Overnight lows will offer little relief, staying in the mid to upper 70s and making it harder for the body to recover from prolonged heat exposure.

Conditions will begin to slightly ease early next week, but temperatures are still expected to remain above average for this time of year.