(SOUTHERN COLORADO) — Over the last several decades, data shows us time and time again that heat remains one of the deadliest weather hazards. Heat fatalities, on average, are one of the most common weather-related deaths.

Recent data suggests that on average there are over 100 heat-related deaths each year. Flooding fatalities—the second most common weather-related fatality—are right behind heat in the charts year after year. From there, the rankings start to fluctuate, but tornadoes are usually next in line.

Looking forward to this weekend, several different heat records are in jeopardy of being broken across the region. Specifically, Colorado Springs should have one of the best chances of seeing some record-breaking heat. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday all pose realistic chances to see some of the warmest temperatures on record for the city.

Pueblo will likewise have some chances to break heat records, but confidence is a bit lower in that happening. Previous records of 105, 109, and 107 may prove to be a bit too high for forecasted temperatures to breach.

Looking forward to the weekend we can see a particularly large, warm air mass hanging out over the Western Rockies. The heat will begin to creep in over the weekend with dangerously warm temperatures to be expected at the surface.

Sunday may very well prove to be the warmest day of the stretch with some of our highest temperatures expected. Many areas will likely see lower triple digits with even the high country pushing lower 90s.

Models are also starting to hint at the very warm air mass sticking around into the beginning of the work week. If these trends stay on course more heat records will be in jeopardy for Monday too.

Be sure to check back in with the FOX21 Storm Team for future updates on the extreme heat.