Heat in Merced-madera-mendota, California

Record high maximum temperature of 89 degrees set in Merced, which broke the record of 86 degrees previously set for the date in 1972 It also breaks the monthly record of 88 degrees previously set in 1972 and 2015.

A strong upper level Ridge was in place across Central California from March 17th through the end of the month. As a result, well above average temperatures with record high temperatures were observed across the San Joaquin Valley during the period. The first 90s of the year popped up on March 17th with some daily record high temperatures being broken.

However, the 18th brought monthly record high temperatures being tied or exceeded for most of the region, while similar highs occurred until the 21st. The above average temperatures continued through the 29th, although high temperatures were not quite as warm after the 22nd. Highs rose to the mid to upper 80s from the 23rd until the 29th in the warmest locations. Above average temperatures also persisted on the 30th, but were not quite as warm as during recent days.