Major heat risk predicted across Inyo County this weekend

Major heat risk predicted across Inyo County this weekend

Officials recommend planning ahead to protect your health 

BISHOP, Calif., July 8, 2026 – The National Weather Service Las Vegas is predicting the first Level 3 – Major Heat Risk of the year, topping out at 105 degrees in Bishop, and 121 degrees  in Furnace Creek by this Saturday. Officials recommend making a plan to reduce heat related illnesses by finding cooler temperatures indoors and limiting outdoor activity as  much as possible.

“Major Level 3 Heat risk will also be likely in the communities of Aspendell and Big Pine,” said Sam Meltzer, Meteorologist with the National Weather Service. “Death Valley  continues to have widespread heat risk this weekend, which is shown best on the HeatRisk  map.”

The National Weather Service offers an interactive map at: www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/heatrisk/

“We want to remind folks of our tips on mitigating extreme heat impacts and other  resources on our Ready Inyo website,” said Inyo County’s Emergency Services Manager,  Lisa Cox.

Extreme Heat | Ready Inyo: https://ready.inyocounty.us/pages/extreme-heat

“Learn the signs of heat illnesses, how to look out for others who are more  sensitive to heat, and check the list of cooling centers around the county that  are open for some relief during business hours.”

Take Precautions: 

• Drink water even if you’re not thirsty (8 ounces every 15 or so minutes).
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, or sugary drinks which can dehydrate you.
• Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible.
• Ensure your vehicle’s maintenance is the best it can be, and stock it with emergency  supplies such as water.
• Avoid strenuous activities, especially outdoors if possible.
• Check on vulnerable individuals, and assist those who are not able to call for help.
• Protect your pets and do not leave in the car.
• Know signs of heat illnesses beforehand. Address it before life-threatening  situations occur.

Designated Cooling Centers

In future extreme heat events where conditions persist beyond cooling center business  hours, Inyo County may open after-hours cooling centers in impacted areas when the  following criteria is met:

• Red Level 3 Category on the heat scale, plus credible prediction of power  disruptions over 8 hours, Public Safety Power Shutoff, or rotating blackouts.
• Magenta Level 4 Category on the heat scale, plus credible prediction of power  disruptions over 4 hours, Public Safety Power Shutoff, or rotating blackouts; or heat  level persists for 3 or more days (with exception of Death Valley)

Inyo County Office of Emergency Management in partnership with weather and utility  officials will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.

Stay informed by following local news and weather reports, and sign up for  emergency and National Weather Service alerts at:

ready.inyocounty.us/pages/alerts

News Staff