Extreme Heat Returns to Southern California This Week

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As another reminder that summer is not over yet, triple-digit temperatures remain possible across significant portions of the Golden State through Wednesday. The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) urges Californians to stay safe and take extreme heat seriously.  

As of 8 a.m. on August 29, the National Weather Services has active Heat Advisories in eight counties and Excessive Heat Warnings in six counties. 

Heat Advisories: Lowest level of warning for heat, alerting that it will be warmer than usual 

Excessive Heat Warnings: Highest level of warning for heat, with at least major heat-related impacts expected 

*Each warning describes a different location in the county* 

Imperial County 

Riverside County 

San Diego County 

San Bernardino County 

Santa Barbara County 

Ventura County 

For an up-to-date list of counties affected by weather advisories, visit the NWS website.  

According to NWS Western Region, temperatures will continue to warm through Tuesday, with much of Southern California seeing major to locally extreme heat-related impacts Monday and Tuesday. Temperatures then return to more typical late August levels Wednesday into the weekend. 

In an effort to enhance readiness, Cal OES developed the Extreme Temperature Response Plan – a detailed playbook that outlines actions the state may take to support local and state partners during an extreme temperature event, hot or cold.   

As high temperatures continue to threaten Californians, please be mindful of the health and safety of you and your loved ones. 

DURING A HEAT EVENT 

  • Avoid strenuous activity and direct exposure to the sun during the hottest parts of the day, specifically from 12 – 6 p.m. 
  • Stay hydrated and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. 
  • Protect your skin using sunscreen with SPF 30 or above. 
  • Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. 
  • Ensure your pets have plenty of cool, fresh water. 
  • NEVER leave children or pets in the car. Even when temperatures outside are mild, the temperature inside the car can reach 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes. 

If you do not have access to air conditioning, find a public cooling center near you. 

HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS 

Extreme heat poses a substantial health risk, especially for vulnerable populations. It’s important to understand the warning signs of heat-related illness. Symptoms include: 

  • Heavy sweating 
  • Muscle cramps 
  • Weakness 
  • Headache 
  • Nausea 

Vomiting, paleness, tiredness and dizziness can also be indicators of heat-related illness. To help prevent heat-related illness, be sure to use cool compresses, misting, showers and baths. Get medical attention if you experience a rapid, strong pulse, you feel delirious or have a body temperature above 102 degrees. 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES 

Cooling Centers 

How Can Older Adults Stay Safe During Extreme Heat? 

Extreme Heat Considerations for Those with Access and Functional Needs 

Extreme Heat Tips for Children 

Extreme Heat Tips for Hiking 

Children’s Water Safety 

Swift Water Safety 

Staying Safe During Extreme Heat