Orange County is in for a stretch of unusually hot weather this week, prompting the National Weather Service to issue an Extreme Heat Warning for inland communities from Tuesday morning through Friday evening.
Inland Orange County is currently under a Heat Advisory through 10 a.m. Tuesday, when the Extreme Heat Warning kicks in. Forecasters say temperatures in some communities — including Anaheim, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Irvine, Mission Viejo, Orange and Santa Ana — could hit triple digits in the days ahead.
Meanwhile, coastal Orange County will be under a Heat Advisory from 10 a.m. Tuesday through 8 p.m. Friday, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s near the beaches to the lower and mid-90s in higher coastal areas.
Anytime it gets this hot, there’s an increased risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, particularly for those who are more sensitive to higher temperatures. As such, the Orange County Health Care Agency advises the following precautions:
What to do
- Drink plenty of water, and don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
- Avoid unnecessary sun exposure. When in the sun, wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim, and use sunscreen.
- Avoid strenuous activities if you are outside or in non-air conditioned buildings. If you are working outdoors, take frequent rest and refreshment breaks in a shaded area.
- Never leave children, elderly people or pets unattended in closed cars or other vehicles.
- Check on those who are at a higher risk to make sure they are staying cool, including seniors who live alone, people with heart or lung disease and young children.
- Stay cool indoors. If your home is not air-conditioned, visit public facilities including shopping malls and libraries to stay cool.
Warning signs
The Health Care Agency says signs of heat exhaustion can include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, headache, nausea or vomiting and dizziness. If you experience these symptoms, move to a cool location, rest and drink fluids.
Warning signs of heat stroke may include an extremely high body temperature; unconsciousness; confusion; hot and dry skin with no sweating; a rapid, strong pulse; and a throbbing headache.
If these symptoms are present, call for medical assistance immediately. County health officials say heat stroke victims should be moved to a shady area where their bodies can be cooled with water.