Nev. RENO.Northern Nevada is experiencing a period of hot, dry weather, and forecasters advise locals to brace for progressively rising temperatures through the middle of the week. According to the Renor National Weather Service, highs might approach triple digits by Friday and reach the 90s by Tuesday and Wednesday.
Heat Builds Across Reno and Sparks
Over the weekend, the heat wave started, with sunny skies on Saturday peaking at about 89 Funder. In the afternoon, winds increased little, reaching 20 mph gusts, although they did little to alleviate the heat. Households without air conditioning had little cooling as overnight lows dropped into the upper 50s.
The forecast is for largely sunny conditions on Sunday and Monday, with highs in the mid- to upper-80s. However, as a ridge of high pressure moves across the Great Basin on Tuesday, Reno and Sparks will experience a more intense heat push. According to forecasters, Tuesday’s high will be close to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while Wednesday and Thursday will see highs in the low to mid-90s. The warmest temperature of the period, 97 F, was recorded in Reno by Friday.
Why the Heat Matters
The neighborhood faces several threats as a result of this run of hot, dry days. Long-term heat can affect children, elderly adults, and anyone with preexisting diseases, according to health officials. Long periods of time spent outside without adequate fluids or shade increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke.
Additionally, the hot, dry air increases the risk of wildfire in the nearby lowlands. Firefighters are concerned that brush or grass fires could start rapidly due to the lowering humidity and the occasional gust of afternoon winds. Since the area has already seen such late-summer fire risks, authorities advise locals to refrain from outdoor burning and to report any smoke immediately.
Safety Precautions for Residents
During the heat wave, authorities are advising people in Northern Nevada to adopt some easy yet effective precautions:
-
Stay Hydrated:
Drink water regularly, even if you don t feel thirsty. -
Limit Outdoor Activity:
Avoid strenuous work or exercise during the afternoon peak hours. -
Use Air Conditioning or Fans:
If cooling isn t available at home, visit
community cooling centers
or public spaces like libraries. -
Check on Neighbors:
Vulnerable groups, especially seniors living alone, may need extra assistance during consecutive hot days.
Five-Day Forecast for Reno
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Saturday:
Sunny, high near 89 F; winds gusting up to 20 mph. -
Sunday:
Sunny, high near 85 F; light southwest winds. -
Monday:
Sunny, high near 89 F; calm, with light southern breezes. -
Tuesday:
Sunny, high near 90 F; clear overnight skies. -
Wednesday:
Hotter, sunny skies, high near 93 F; overnight low around 61 F.
Looking Ahead
Although temperatures are expected to reach the mid-90s this week, forecasters warn that the hot, dry weather could persist into next weekend. Before cooler, more seasonable air arrives, Reno and Sparks may experience another round of mid-to-upper 90s temperatures if the ridge of high pressure stays in place.
How are you getting ready for this week’s heat wave in Northern Nevada? Post your ideas and advice in the SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com comments section.
