Hot weather soaring to 110 degrees — or higher —is coming Fresno’s way as a heat dome forms over the West Coast.

It’s not only uncomfortable but also can be deadly if you don’t take precautions.

The National Weather Service in Hanford has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the entire San Joaquin Valley for Friday through Sunday.

The NWS only issues that level of warning when heat-related illnesses are likely.

#ATTENTION: Starting Friday, June 30th, 2023, the City of Fresno cooling centers will open.

The four cooling centers will stay open until the temperatures drop below 100 degrees per the @NWSHanford. pic.twitter.com/BO9J5e4Gqv

— City of Fresno (@CityofFresno) June 27, 2023

According to heat.gov, the groups most at risk during heat waves are “children, older adults, people experiencing homelessness, people with pre-existing conditions, indoor and outdoor workers, emergency responders, incarcerated people, low-income communities, pregnant people, (and) athletes.”

Learn why heat is so deadly at this link.

Killer Heat

On average, there are 702 heat-related deaths, 9,200 hospitalizations, and 67,000 emergency room visits annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Since 1998, 948 children have died after being left in hot cars — including 33 last year.

And, Texas has had at least 13 heat-related deaths this week as it swelters under a heat dome.

“In an average year in the U.S., heat kills more people than any other type of extreme weather,” says Kristina Dahl, a senior climate scientist at the Union of Concerned Scientists, told Scientific American.

This year’s late arrival of triple-digit temperatures to Fresno and surrounding communities coincides with the Fourth of July weekend when people usually party outdoors.

By following the tips below, you can stay safe while celebrating Independence Day.