FIRST ALARM ACTION DAY: Tracking extreme heat in the desert southwest

YUMA, Arizona (KYMA, KECY-TV) – A high pressure system is over the desert in the southwest, which will bring temperatures more than 10 degrees above average through Friday.

Due to higher temperatures, which may increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, a First Alert ACTION Day has been established.

A Warning of excessive heat is now in effect for Yuma County and parts of Imperial County until 8 p.m. Friday.

Due to the high temperatures, there are also concerns about air quality; an Air Quality Warning is in effect for parts of Imperial County until 8:00 p.m. tonight due to high ozone levels (smog).

Cooler but still quite warm temperatures are expected this weekend, with increasing cloud cover and rising humidity.