Tracking triple-digit heat through the week

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Above-normal temperatures continue across the region, and we're tracking even hotter conditions heading into the middle of the week.

Yuma and El Centro are both reaching around 102°F Monday afternoon, with temperatures remaining in the triple digits through the start of the week.

Yuma is expected to reach 103°F Tuesday before climbing to around 105°F Wednesday. El Centro will be even warmer, with highs near 104°F Tuesday and 106°F Wednesday.

An Extreme Heat Watch remains in effect from Wednesday morning through Thursday evening for portions of southwest Arizona and southeast California, including Yuma and portions of Imperial County.

Afternoon temperatures could reach between 104°F and 108°F, bringing a Major Heat Risk and the potential for near-record temperatures.

The combination of the extreme heat and prolonged exposure can significantly increase the risk for heat-related illnesses.

If you have to be outdoors, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning.

Overnight temperatures will offer limited relief, with lows staying in the upper 70s to around 80°F through Wednesday night.

The good news is the heat won't last forever. Dry conditions with zero rain chances are expected through Saturday, but shower and thunderstorm chances could return to parts of Arizona as early as Sunday.

Winds will be much calmer compared to the gustier conditions we saw over the weekend, with generally light winds expected across Yuma and Imperial Counties through the middle of the week.

For now, the focus remains on the dangerous heat building across the region through the middle of the week.