Ready or not, a major heat wave is rolling into San Diego County this weekend.
A heat advisory has been issued from 10 a.m. Saturday through 7 p.m. Monday. Temperatures in the inland valleys will be in the 100s Saturday through Tuesday.
“By Saturday, we hit triple digits, and we stay there for four days,” NBC 7 forecaster Whitney Southwick said.
“This is the longest hot stretch we’ve seen all summer long.”
The Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) has issued a high heat advisory. Employers of outdoor workers are required to provide employees with plenty of water and a shaded place to take breaks, according to Cal/OSHA.
People, especially the elderly, are encouraged to stay indoors during scorching heat. There are more than 100 designated “cool zones” across San Diego County for those without air conditioning. See a complete list of cool zone locations and hours here
If you do venture outside, it’s important to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Muscle cramping can be the first symptom of heat-related illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.)
Signs of Heat Exhaustion
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness
- Cold, pale, clammy skin
- Fast, weak pulse
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fainting
What to Do
- Move to a cooler location.
- Lie down and loosen your clothing.
- Apply cool, wet cloths to your body.
- Sip water.
- If vomiting continues, seek medical attention immediately.
Signs of Heat Stroke
- Body temperature above 103°F
- Hot, red, dry or moist skin
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Unconsciousness
What to Do
- Call 911 immediately.
- Move the person to a cooler environment.
- Reduce the person’s body temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath.
- Do NOT give fluids.
(Source: CDC)
