LOS ANGELES (KNX) — Sunset or sunrise — that's when officials say residents should plan their outdoor activities as a dangerous summer heat wave threatens to turn Southern California into an air fryer.
"These are extreme heats, when you're rising to 105, 107, even 110 in some areas that's more than we're used to," said pediatrician John Rodarte. "Our bodies are not acclimated to that. You start hitting over 100 constantly, that's a much different factor."
All of Southern California — Los Angeles County, Orange County, and the Inland Empire — is expecting the most extended and hottest heat wave of the year, with multiple consecutive days where temperatures reach above 100 degrees.
Heat in the Bay Area — which could also see record-breaking highs — will begin to rise Wednesday, with the hottest temperatures expected Thursday and Sunday, meteorologists predicted. Officials also issued heat advisories covering the Sacramento Valley and northern San Joaquin Valley.
The prolonged heat will cause the air quality to drop, making it harder for kids, seniors, and people with asthma to breathe.
"We say if you're thirsty, you're already behind the eight ball," said Pasadena Fire Chief Chad Augustin, adding that he and his fellow firefighters across Southern California are on high alert and ready to respond to any heat-related emergencies.
"It can happen so fast," said Augustin. "We have people who go out for a hike. They don't bring any water or nourishment and then the hikes take longer than predicted."
Rodarte added to Augustin's sentiment and stressed the importance of staying hydrated during this heat wave.
There are several signs of dehydration that UCLA Health recommends residents look for:
- Dark or colored urine
- Lower outputs of urine
- Excessive thirst or dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness or confusion
- Headache
- Fewer tears if crying
"Some people aren't aware of how much they need to drink, especially young children," he said. As a result, they may not be able to tell their parents that they're feeling thirsty.
According to UCLA Health, drinking when thirsty may work for some people. However, for others, the presence of thirst means a person is already dehydrated. While drinking 48 to 64 ounces is sufficient, UCLA officials reiterated the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine's recommendation of 91 ounces for women and 125 ounces for men.
Doctors recommend that certain people, like those with medical conditions or those who are pregnant, should get more fluids into their systems by drinking or eating food with water.
Mayor Eric Garcetti announced the opening of nine cooling centers in the City of Los Angeles that will remain open through Sept. 5 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- South Los Angeles Sports Activity Center: 7020 S. Figueroa St., 90003
- Jim Gilliam Recreation Center: 4000 S. La Brea Ave., 90008
- Westwood Recreation Center: 1350 S Sepulveda Blvd., 90025
- Westchester Senior Center: 7000 W Manchester Ave., 90045
- Lincoln Park Recreation Center: 3501 Valley Blvd., 90031
- Lafayette Recreation Center: 625 S. Lafayette Park Pl., 90031
- Canoga Park Senior Center: 7326 Jordan Ave. Canoga Park, CA 91303
- Mid Valley Senior Center: 8825 Kester Ave. Panorama City, CA 91402
- Sylmar Recreation Center: 13109 Borden Ave. Sylmar, CA 91342
"Our City's libraries, recreation centers, and senior centers are all part of our network of cooling centers, and they are always available to residents during normal business hours," Garcetti said in a statement. We're adding hours at nine centers this week so that anyone who needs help can stay cool, healthy, and safe."
"Extreme heat stagnates air pollution and disproportionately affects vulnerable communities such as seniors, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions that live, work, and play in pollution burdened areas, who then are most likely to be hospitalized and suffer from heat exhaustion," Los Angeles Chief Heath Officer Marta Segura said.
Segura urged people to check in on their loved ones, take care of their pets, and never leave anyone in a vehicle during periods of extreme heat.
Cooling centers are opening throughout L.A. County. To cool off at the nearest cooling center or public pool, visit ready.lacounty.gov.
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