Stockton residents can expect several days of temperatures in the mid-90s before the heat peaks at about 98 degrees Tuesday and Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.
The weather service’s Sacramento office forecasts highs between 93 and 95 degrees Friday through Monday, followed by highs near 98 Tuesday and Wednesday. Temperatures are expected to fall to around 95 Thursday, while overnight lows will remain in the 60s.
Monsoonal moisture could bring clouds and increased humidity late Sunday or early Monday. The best chance for thunderstorms will remain over the Sierra, and forecasters said storms are unlikely to reach the Valley or foothills. Much of the Valley is expected to experience moderate heat risk by Tuesday, particularly for people sensitive to heat or those spending long periods outdoors.
The City of Stockton said it relies on criteria established by the San Joaquin County Office of Emergency Services, which defines extreme heat as temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days, combined with high heat and humidity. Under that definition, Stockton’s forecast qualifies even though temperatures are not expected to reach triple digits.
Prolonged heat can cause serious illness or death by forcing the body to work harder to maintain a normal temperature. Older adults, children, people who are ill and residents without reliable air conditioning are among those at greater risk, according to SJCOES.
As temperatures rise, Stockton is directing residents to community centers, libraries, swimming pools and splash pads where they can find relief from the heat.
Stockton cooling zones
The following community centers and libraries are serving as cooling zones during regular business hours:
- Arnold Rue Community Center: 5758 Lorraine Ave.
- Cesar Chavez Central Library: 605 N. El Dorado St.
- Fair Oaks Library: 2370 E. Main St.
- Margaret Troke Library: 502 W. Benjamin Holt Drive
- Maya Angelou Library: 2324 Pock Lane
- Seifert Community Center: 128 W. Benjamin Holt Drive
- Stribley Community Center: 1760 E. Sonora St.
- Van Buskirk Community Center: 734 Houston Ave.
- Weston Ranch Library: 1453 W. French Camp Road
- Ursula Meyer Library and Community Center: 1461 E. Morada Lane
Air-conditioned seating and water will be available. The city encourages residents to bring books, games or electronic devices while using the cooling zones. Hours vary by location.
Stockton swimming pools
The city lists six pools as open this summer:
- Brooking Park Pool: 4505 Nugget Ave.
- Holiday Park Pool: 5710 Kermit Lane
- McKinley Park Pool: 2332 S. El Dorado St.
- Oak Park Pool: 3537 Alvarado Ave.
- Sousa Park Pool: 2829 Yellowstone Ave.
- Victory Park Pool: 1445 Picardy Drive
Pool hours, amenities and admission information are available through the city’s aquatics webpage.
Stockton splash pads
Residents can also visit five water-play areas:
- Gleason Park Splash Pads: South California and East Church streets
- Iloilo Park Splash Pad: 6250 Scott Creek Drive
- Michael Faklis Park Splash Pad: 5250 Cosumnes Drive
- Pixie Woods Dragon Water Play Area: 3121 Monte Diablo Ave. in Louis Park
- Smith Park Splash Pad: 2606 William Moss Blvd.
Hours vary by location. An admission fee applies to the Pixie Woods water-play area.
City officials recommend staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day, limiting physical activity and drinking water even before feeling thirsty. Residents should also check on older adults, children, people who are ill and neighbors who may need assistance. Children and pets should never be left inside parked vehicles.
Anyone experiencing a medical emergency, including difficulty breathing, symptoms of a stroke or altered mental status, should call 911.