Fresno broke the March heat record Wednesday, hitting 93 degrees, surpassing the previous monthly high of 91 degrees set in 2015, according to the National Weather Service.

In addition, Thursday’s afternoon temperature reached 90 degrees and is projected to climb to 92, shattering the March 19 record of 86 degrees set in 1928.

The early-season heat wave gripping the Central Valley is expected to continue breaking records over the next few days.

The National Weather Service in Hanford said temperatures are running 20 to 25 degrees above average, with many areas across the Valley reaching the 90s for the first time this year. NWS noted that Bakersfield peaked at 95 degrees on Wednesday, shattering its record of 88 set in 2004.

Forecasters said the heat will intensify in the coming days, with Fresno expected to break another daily record on Friday. Highs are forecast near 95 degrees Friday.

“Daily and monthly record high maximum temperatures will be challenged this week,” the weather service said.

Fresno’s Forecast

The unusually hot pattern is expected to persist into Saturday, with highs near 91 degrees, before a cooldown begins. By Sunday, temperatures are forecast to drop to about 84 degrees, followed by highs in the upper 80s early next week.

Despite the slight cooling, forecasters said above-normal temperatures will continue, with a 45% to 70% chance of highs reaching at least 90 degrees again Monday and Tuesday.

The heat is being driven by a strong ridge of high pressure, which is expected to weaken and shift east over the weekend.

Officials urge residents to practice cold water safety, warning that rivers and waterways are fast-moving and dangerously cold despite the hot weather.

NWS says even though dry conditions will persist, there is little to no wildfire risk. One exception: isolated grass fires.

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