Extreme Heat Watch Issued for Southern Oregon and Northern California

Extreme Heat Medford — *Courtesy: NWS Medford*

Medford, Oregon- The National Weather Service in Medford has issued an Extreme Heat Watch for a wide portion of Southern Oregon and far Northern California, warning of dangerously high temperatures expected to arrive over the weekend and persist into next week.

The watch is in effect from Saturday afternoon through at least Monday evening, covering Jackson, Josephine, and Eastern Curry counties in Oregon, as well as Central and Western Siskiyou County in California.

Forecasters say temperatures could climb well above 100 degrees, with some valley locations possibly approaching 105 degrees or higher. The combination of extreme heat and elevated humidity levels could lead to significantly increased risks of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, particularly for those spending extended time outdoors or without access to air conditioning.

According to the weather service, this type of prolonged heat event may also pose elevated fire weather concerns, especially in dry, forested areas where fuels are already critically dry. Local officials are monitoring fire danger levels and urge residents to avoid outdoor activities that could inadvertently spark a wildfire.

Precautionary steps recommended by public health and emergency officials include:

• Staying indoors during peak heat hours, typically between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

• Drinking plenty of water, even if not feeling thirsty.

• Using fans and air conditioning, or visiting cooling shelters if available.

• Checking on neighbors, particularly the elderly, children, and people with preexisting health conditions.

• Never leaving children or pets in parked vehicles, where temperatures can quickly become lethal.

This heat watch follows a warming trend seen across the West in recent weeks, as high pressure builds over the region. The weather service warns that the duration of the heat event could extend beyond Monday depending on the strength and movement of the system.

Residents are urged to monitor weather updates, advisories, and official instructions as the forecast becomes more certain in the coming days. Further advisories or warnings may be issued as temperatures climb.