HEAT WAVE TO BAKE REGION FRIDAY THROUGH TUESDAY

By Miriam Raftery

August 2, 2019 (San Diego’s East County) – A heat wave will bring toasty temperatures in triple digits to our inland region starting Friday through at least Tuesday. The National Weather Service cautions that heat advisories, watches or warnings may be issued due to health risks posed by high heat.

Temperatures in San Diego County’s low desert regions are forecast to reach 112 to 115 degrees, with 100 to 106 degrees in high desert areas.  Mountain temperatures are expected to reach into the 90s, while coastal areas and inland valleys will be in the 80s.

Find a list of cool zones – public places with air conditioning -- at https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/hhsa/programs/ais/documents/Cool%20Zone%20Locations%202019.pdf 

Here are  tips to beat the heat and avoid heat stroke or heat exhaustion, provided by San Diego County:

Tips to Beat the Heat

• Slow down. Be your most physically active during the coolest part of the day, usually between 4-7 a.m. Pace yourself when engaging in physical activity.
• Stay indoors as much as possible. If air conditioning is not being used, stay on the lowest floor. Keep shades down and blinds closed, but windows slightly open.
• Go to a Cool Zone site on hot days.
• Electric fans do not cool the air, but they do help sweat evaporate, which cools your body.
• Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath.
• Avoid using the oven.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's heat.
• Air out hot cars before getting into them.
• Never leave children or pets inside vehicles at any time, even with the windows cracked. Temperatures inside a vehicle can reach lethal levels no matter what the weather is like.
• Drink more fluids than usual even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Water is the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine; they make the heat's effects on your body worse.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein, which increases metabolic heat.
• Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• If you take diuretics, ask your physician about a lower dosage during hot weather.
• If it is safe to do so, leave windows open at night. Open windows on two sides to create cross ventilation.
• Place a piece of cardboard covered with aluminum foil in sunny windows to reflect sunlight and heat away from the house.
• Vacuum, clean or replace air filters regularly for maximum cooling efficiency.
• If affordable, install outdoor awnings or sunscreens.
• Call your physician if you feel you may be experiencing a heat-related illness.

For more information, send an email or phone 800-510-2020 (within San Diego County) or 800-339-4661 (outside the County).