Avenal, California

... First triple digit heat of the season possible this week...

Strong high pressure will move into California this week. This
will push temperatures to well above seasonal average. High
temperatures in the San Joaquin Valley... lower foothills of the
southern Sierra Nevada... and the deserts of Kern County could
reach or top the 100 degree mark. Near record high temperatures
are possible beginning Thursday and lasting into the weekend.

Snow melt in the higher elevations of the southern Sierra Nevada
will increase as well. This will result in increased runoff into
mountain streams and rivers. Remember that while the water may
look inviting... it could be dangerously deep... swift and cold.

Here are some tips to help you Cope with the heat.

Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. When possible... stay in the
shade or an air conditioned room. Wear loose fitting... light
colored clothes. Drink plenty of non alcoholic fluids.

Never leave children or pets in a vehicle... even for short periods
of time. Temperatures inside vehicles can climb rapidly to life
threatening levels... even with windows partially open.

Periodically check on children and the elderly. Also... remember
that animals will be affected by the heat. Make sure that pets
and farm animals have plenty of water and access to shade.