Two hours before the thermometer at Stockton Metropolitan Airport reached its zenith Tuesday, Stockton had already broken the record for hottest September 6 – a sweltering 112 degrees. That broke the previous record of 110 degrees set just two years ago.
By 6 p.m., the new record stood at an official 115 degrees. That’s 22 degrees higher than the average temperature for September 6.
Extreme temperatures once thought to occasionally arrive in July or August are now becoming more commonplace in September.
According to meteorologist Chelsea Peters, with the National Weather Service in Sacramento, a strong ridge of high pressure has blanketed much of the western United States for several days. It has produced record temperatures up and down California as well as in other states.
“It does seem like this has become the new normal,” Peters said. “Anomalous events, like record temperatures, and longer periods of warming can be seen almost everywhere.”
The National Weather Service has declared a dangerous heat warning through 8 p.m. on Thursday based on a continued threat of temps approaching Tuesday’s high of 115. The entire population risks heat stress and illness during this ongoing heat wave. Officials say it is important to drink plenty of fluids and remain in air-conditioned rooms, or find a cooling center, as fans may not adequately bring down indoor temperatures.
Stay cool, Stockton.
Community Center cooling stations (through Sept. 9):
- Arnold Rue Community Center – 5758 Lorraine Ave., Stockton 95210
- Seifert Community Center – 128 W. Benjamin Holt Dr., Stockton 95207
- Stribley Community Center – 1760 E. Sonora St., Stockton 95205
- Van Buskirk Community Center – 734 Houston Ave., Stockton 95206
