Today could be one for the record books.
If weather predictions hold true, the 111 degrees that Manteca is expected to hit this afternoon would make it the hottest day in June in Manteca in more than 50 years – tying the record set in 1961.
That excessive heat means that public health officials are urging local residents to take precautions to deal with one of the worst heat waves to hit the Northern San Joaquin Valley in recent memory – marking more than seven consecutive days with triple digit temperatures.
According to Accuweather, the high-pressure system bringing the scorching heat isn’t expected to break up until early next week – extending the streak of days with temperatures above the century mark to longer than a week.
Currently both the City of Manteca and the City of Lathrop have opened cooling shelters during the day for residents who might not have access to air conditioning and other affected groups that could face negative health impacts from extended exposure to outside temperatures.
Residents who need to get out of the heat can visit the Manteca Senior Center, located at 295 Cherry Lane, from 1 to 9 p.m., or the Lathrop Senior Center, located at 15707 5th Street, from 1 to 9 p.m.
The high on Wednesday in Manteca was 106 degrees.
According to the National Weather Service, overnight lows are not expected to drop below the upper 70s, and temperatures in the valley could reach as high as 112 degrees – which, if registered in Manteca, would make it the hottest day on record during the month of June.
The National Weather Service also suggests that:
uPeople stay inside of air conditioned homes if possible, or if they’re outside, stay in the shade.
uWear lightweight clothing if you have to go outside.
uSave outdoor activities for the coolest parts of the day – either early in the morning or after the sun goes down.
uKeep an eye on livestock, pets and other groups that may be sensitive to the extreme heat.
uStay hydrated and stock up on extra water.
uHead to cooler temperatures along the coast of California or up in the High Sierra if the opportunity presents itself.
The extensive heat, which followed an unusually late spring storm, is also a concern for firefighters who are keeping a close eye on rural grasses that have grown much taller thanks to an abundance of water during the wet winter. With safe-and-sane firework season fast approaching – and a prolific illegal fireworks trade throughout San Joaquin County – local fire officials are working hard to make sure that weed abatement is completed before the annual holiday to prevent any scenario where errant fireworks could cause problems.

To contact reporter Jason Campbell email jcampbell@mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544.