by SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – After weeks of relatively mild temperatures, the Sacramento region is bracing for a heat wave as triple-digit weather conditions are expected to return starting Friday, August 8. The National Weather Service (NWS) is forecasting highs of up to 100°F through the weekend, with moderate heat risk projected for much of Northern California.
From Modesto to Stockton to Sacramento, residents should prepare for a significant uptick in temperatures, especially after a summer that’s been notably cooler than last year.
Highs Could Reach 100 Degrees in Sacramento
According to the National Weather Service, daytime highs across interior Northern California are expected to rise 3 to 7 degrees above normal this weekend.
“This weekend, highs are forecast to be around 3 to 7 degrees warmer than normal,” the agency announced via X on Wednesday, August 6.
The hottest days will likely be Saturday and Sunday, when Sacramento could hit 100°F.
Sacramento’s Full Weather Forecast This Week
The NWS issued a seven-day outlook that shows how temperatures will rise steadily in the region. Here’s a breakdown:
- Wednesday, Aug. 6: High of 96°F, low of 63°F, clear skies
- Thursday, Aug. 7: High of 96°F, low around 63°F, light winds (5–6 mph)
- Friday, Aug. 8: High near 100°F, low around 66°F, light variable winds
- Saturday, Aug. 9: High of 100°F, low around 63°F
- Sunday, Aug. 10: High near 98°F, low of 63°F
Winds are expected to remain calm to light throughout the week, offering little relief from the heat.
Moderate Heat Risk from August 8–10
The heat risk index, developed using data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), helps determine how extreme a heat event might be. The scale ranges from 0 (no risk) to 4 (extreme risk).
For Sacramento, the NWS forecasts a Level 2 heat risk, categorized as moderate, from Friday through Sunday.
This level of risk affects most individuals sensitive to heat, particularly:
- Pregnant women
- Infants and young children
- Older adults
- Individuals with chronic health conditions
- People without access to adequate cooling or hydration
“Moderate heat risk affects most individuals sensitive to heat, especially those without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration,” the NWS stated.
Residents are urged to take preventive measures, including staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, and checking in on vulnerable neighbors.
Why Has Summer 2025 Been Cooler in Sacramento?
Many residents may be surprised to hear about this upcoming heat wave, given how mild Sacramento’s summer has been so far—especially compared to 2024’s scorching temperatures.
According to The Sacramento Bee, a low-pressure trough system has lingered over the region, keeping temperatures down.
In 2024, Sacramento saw more than 20 days over 100°F by early August.
In contrast, as of August 6, 2025, Sacramento has only reached 100°F twice all summer.
This rare reprieve is coming to an end, at least temporarily, as high pressure builds over California once again.
Stay Safe and Stay Cool
While the forecast doesn’t call for record-breaking temperatures, the heat will still pose risks to vulnerable communities. Health officials advise taking the following precautions:
- Limit outdoor activity during mid-afternoon hours
- Use air conditioning or fans when indoors
- Wear light, breathable clothing
- Drink water frequently, even if not thirsty
- Check on elderly family members or neighbors
How is your neighborhood preparing for this weekend’s heat? Share your thoughts and survival tips in the comments at ibwhsmag.com.
