The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for Yuma County from Wednesday, Aug. 20, through Friday evening, Aug. 22, as temperatures are expected to approach near-record highs.

“On Thursday, we’re forecasting 113, and the record is 115,” said Sean Benedict, a meteorologist with the NWS. “It could get close, and there’s still a chance that it could get to the record.”

Daytime highs will surge to around 113 degrees beginning Wednesday, creating dangerous conditions for pets, livestock and anyone without access to adequate cooling or hydration.

Overnight temperatures are expected to remain in the high 80s, offering little relief from the heat.

By Thursday night, slight chances of thunderstorms will begin to increase heading into the weekend.

“The pattern becomes a

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