UCSF Fresno warns of dangers as triple digit heat returns

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Dangerous triple-digit temperatures are returning to the Central Valley this weekend, and health officials are urging residents to take the heat seriously, warning that it could lead to life-threatening medical emergencies if precautions aren’t taken.

Even though this upcoming heatwave isn’t expected to trigger official advisories or warnings, doctors and first responders say the risk remains high, especially for those spending long hours outside or without proper cooling indoors.

“We’re going to hit our triple digits and up to, you know, 105, 106 and higher,” said Dr. Kenny Banh with UCSF Fresno. “You have to be very careful when working outside.”

Dr. Banh says many people underestimate the toll heat can take on the body, especially when they’re active.

“It’s all about prevention,” he said. “Limit your time outdoors. A lot of times, people do long outdoor activities, and I see them go on hikes with a single bottle of water, which is not enough for the distance they’re trying to cover.”

Heat-related illnesses can sneak up quickly. If not caught early, symptoms can escalate from heat exhaustion to heat stroke.

American Ambulance says they are already preparing for a spike in emergency calls.

“We do anticipate a slight bump in call volume, and then a bigger jump in heat-related calls,” said Ben Wiele with American Ambulance.

Wiele stressed that even being indoors doesn’t guarantee safety, especially if homes lack adequate cooling.

“We go to houses where it’s been 95 degrees outside and 88 degrees inside,” Wiele said. “That starts to take a toll on the body.”

Both Banh and Wiele stress the importance of recognizing early signs of dehydration and heat stroke.

“Blurred vision, headache, confusion—if you’ve stopped sweating where you were sweating before, that’s a real bad sign,” said Wiele.

“You start hallucinating, you might be confused, you might have slurred speech, which is where the term ‘stroke’ comes from,” added Dr. Banh.

Experts say simple steps like staying hydrated, finding shade, and knowing your limits can make a life-saving difference. As temperatures climb, awareness is just as critical as water and rest.