LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The National Weather Service has issued a special weather statement for a large portion of Northern California, including Lake County, due to a forecast of excessive heat and fire weather danger later this week.

A summary the National Weather Service issued said a rapid warming and drying trend is in store this week with high pressure building over the region.

The forecast calls for hot temperatures from Friday into the weekend. The special weather statement said conditions will increase the potential for heat-related illnesses for those exposed to prolonged outdoor heat, especially the elderly, children and other sensitive groups.

Raising the concerns for fire danger is a combination of gusty north winds and the region’s dry early summer conditions.

The specific Lake County forecast calls for temperatures in the high 90s, peaking on Saturday just under the century mark.

Temperatures are forecast to roll back into the high 80s early next week.

Winds with gusts into the mid-teens are expected on Wednesday night, based on the forecast.

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