SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — The heat is on across San Diego County this weekend, and don't expect much relief anytime soon.
A strong area of high pressure, often referred to as a "heat dome," remains anchored over the Southwest, keeping temperatures well above average across Southern California. The National Weather Service says above-average high and low temperatures are expected to continue through next week.
Saturday will start with some patchy marine layer clouds near the coast before skies clear, with mostly sunny conditions expected across the county.
Temperatures will climb quickly away from the beaches. San Diego County's western valleys are forecast to reach 89 to 94 degrees Saturday, while communities closer to the foothills could reach 95 to 100 degrees. The mountains will climb into the 90s, while the deserts could reach as high as 116 degrees.
Heat Advisory begins Saturday
A Heat Advisory takes effect at 10 a.m. Saturday for San Diego County's inland valleys and mountains and remains in effect through 8 p.m. Monday.
The National Weather Service says hot temperatures could increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Overnight temperatures will also remain warmer than normal, limiting the amount of relief from the heat after sunset.
The most dangerous heat will remain in the deserts, where an Extreme Heat Warning has been extended through 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28.
What about the monsoon?
The monsoon will take a bit of a break this weekend as moisture decreases across the region.
Saturday is expected to remain mostly dry. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms returns to the mountains and lower deserts Monday afternoon.
Any thunderstorms that eventually develop could bring localized heavy rain, gusty winds and lightning.
Heat sticks around into next week
There isn't a significant cooldown showing up yet. Above-average daytime and overnight temperatures are expected to continue through next week, with moderate to locally major HeatRisk across portions of the coast, valleys and mountains and major to extreme HeatRisk in the lower deserts.
People spending time outside should stay hydrated, limit strenuous activities during the hottest part of the afternoon and never leave children or pets inside a parked vehicle.
Saturday's exact high-temperature ranges
Coast: 78–88°F
Inland: 90–101°F
Mountains: 89–103°F
Deserts: 113–117°F
