It’s getting hot out here!
California is forecast to experience extremely hot temperatures statewide over the next week, with daytime readings reaching 95 to 110 degrees. The extreme heat and wind also increase the risk of fire across some mountain and foothill locations across the state. Several heat-related watches and warnings have been issued through Monday, with more predicted to come.
Heat related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur due to prolonged exposure to hot temperatures, even to the general population. People with disabilities, older adults, and those with chronic illness may be especially impacted by the high temperatures. Within your network or community, we ask you to be aware of individuals who may need specific support and encourage you to identify local resources that individuals may need.
A few things you can do to prepare for the hot temperatures:
- Avoid prolonged exposure being outdoors.
- Drink plenty of liquids to stay hydrated.
- Stay in air-conditioned rooms.
- Never leave children, pets, or older adults in an unattended vehicle, even for a short period of time.
- Check in with your friends, family, and neighbors who may be disproportionally impacted and who may not have air conditioning.
- Find where your local cooling centers are located.
A few things you can do to prepare the community and individuals you serve for hot temperatures:
- Collect information on local resources, including transportation options and cooling center information, and share with individuals you serve and your community.
- Learn what your local city or county is doing to respond to the high temperatures and potential power outages and reach out to coordinate messaging and resources.
With excessive heat in the forecast, the grid operator is expecting high electricity demand and is calling for voluntary conservation steps to help balance supply and demand. Reducing energy usage between the hours of 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. can have a substantial impact on California’s power grid. Flex Alerts are possible through the Labor Day weekend.
Tips before a Flex Alert:
• Pre-cool home by setting the thermostat to as low as 72 degrees.
• Use major appliances including washers, dryers, dishwashers, and ovens before the identified Flex Alert time.
• Adjust blinds and drapes to cover windows.
• Make sure all electronics and portable power banks are charged.
Conserving energy during the Flex Alert:
- Close window coverings.
- Set your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher.
- Use fans for cooling.
- Turn off unnecessary lights.
- Unplug unnecessary devices and equipment when not in use.
Resources:
Call 2-1-1 to find a local cooling center, for non-emergency help and for questions, or 9-1-1 for heat-related illness.
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