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Millions of residents across several regions in Southern California have been warned by the National Weather Service (NWS) to “stay out of the sun” and take immediate precautions as temperatures are due to soar into the upper 90s through to Wednesday. This unexpected and unseasonal heat wave could pose a threat to the public’s health, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly, young children, outdoor workers, pets, and those without air conditioning. The sun sets behind Joshua Trees in Lancaster, California, where temperatures reached 107 degrees Fahrenheit (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images) Why It Matters This unexpected and unseasonal heat wave could pose a threat to the public’s health, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly, young children, outdoor workers, pets, and those without air conditioning. Extreme heat, even in October, can lead to serious health issues, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The NWS has urged residents in affected areas to look out for signs of heat stroke, which, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is the most serious form of heat-related illness. Symptoms for heat stroke include a lack of sweating, confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures, and the OSHA states that “heat stroke is a medical emergency that may result in death! Call 911 immediately.” What To Know NWS heat advisories are in effect in the following Southwestern California areas: Orange County Inland Areas, San Bernardino and Riverside County Valleys, and San Diego County Valleys These areas are likely to see temperatures reach up to 96 degrees until Wednesday evening, and residents are being told to drink plenty of fluids and check up on relatives and neighbors. Central Ventura County Valleys, Southeastern Ventura County Valleys, and Ventura County Inland Coast Alongside temperatures reaching the low 90s (through to Wednesday evening), these regions could also see northeasterly wind gusts reaching up to 35 mph, which are not expected to ease until late Wednesday afternoon. The NWS has warned residents to take necessary heat precautions and to use extra caution when driving in high winds, especially in high-profile vehicles, like trucks or tractors. Santa Susana Mountains Residents in this area will see temperatures reaching around 90 until Wednesday evening, and they could experience winds up to 45 mph, lasting until Wednesday afternoon. They’ve also been warned to take care when driving and to stay in air-conditioned rooms, if possible. Lake Casitas and the Ojai Valley Well-above average temperatures—reaching the mid-90s—are expected in these areas, lasting until Wednesday night. In addition to the above regions, the NWS has also issued warnings for parts of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, where “hot temperatures and high humidity” are likely to affect individuals who are sensitive to heat. What People Are Saying The NWS has urged those in affected areas to: “Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.” OSHA says: “When someone is experiencing a heat emergency, time is of the essence! Call 9-1-1, move the affected person to a shaded/cool area, cool the affected person with cold water or ice, provide the affected person with water (if conscious), and monitor the affected person and ensure they are not left alone.” What Happens Next For ongoing updates and official guidance, visit the National Weather Service website.
