An Excessive Heat Watch – with dangerously high temperatures possible – has been issued by the National Weather Service office in Sacramento, and likely will impact weekend activities around the region.

The watch is in effect from late Friday morning, July 14 through early Monday evening, July 17.

Affected areas are the Sacramento Valley, Northern San Joaquin Valley including the tri-city area of Oakdale, Riverbank and Escalon, the Motherlode, Northeast Foothills, Burney Basin, Coastal Range, Delta, Shasta County Mountains, and portions of the West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Lassen/Western Plumas counties for elevations below 4500 feet.

Forecasters are predicting dangerously hot conditions with daytime high temperatures ranging from 98 to 113 degrees and overnight lows in the upper 60s to low 80s possible. The extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.

The hottest temperatures are expected over the weekend and the warmest overnight lows will be in the foothills and northern Sacramento Valley. Conversely, area waterways will continue to run cold and fast, creating dangerous conditions for those seeking relief in rivers and lakes.

Residents are urged to monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates on this situation. Be prepared to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.