EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING ISSUED FOR WEEKEND

By Miriam Raftery

August 13, 2015 (San Diego’s East County) –The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for San Diego County deserts and a heat advisory for mountain and valley areas. 

The warning and advisory are in effect from Friday at 1 p.m. to Monday at 9 p.m. Temperatures are forecast to reach 116 in Borrego Springs, 105 in Campo, 104 in Ramona, 102 in Alpine and 100 in El Cajon, shattering prior records.

Children, the elderly and pets without adequate shelter are at highest risk of heat-related illness.

Area residents are urged to take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside.  If possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Drink plenty of water and carry water with you when traveling or active outdoors.

To reduce risk if you work outdoors, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends frequent rest breaks be scheduled in shaded or air conditioned environments.

Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.  Per the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of heat stroke are:

• High body temperature. A body temperature of 104 F (40 C) or higher is the main sign of heatstroke.
• Altered mental state or behavior. Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, delirium, seizures and coma can all result from heatstroke.
• Alteration in sweating. In heatstroke brought on by hot weather, your skin will feel hot and dry to the touch. However, in heatstroke brought on by strenuous exercise, your skin may feel moist.
• Nausea and vomiting. You may feel sick to your stomach or vomit.
• Flushed skin. Your skin may turn red as your body temperature increases.
• Rapid breathing. Your breathing may become rapid and shallow.
• Racing heart rate. Your pulse may significantly increase because heat stress places a tremendous burden on your heart to help cool your body.
• Headache. Your head may throb.

Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool, shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency, so always call 911.

A cooling trend is forecast to begin early next week.