High temperatures forecast for SoCal from Tuesday to Thursday

The Los Angeles County Health Officer has issued a heat advisory from Tuesday May 20 through Thursday May 22 for some areas including the San Fernando Valley, the San Gabriel Valley and Los Angeles Inland Coast.

To avoid a heat-related illness, the County recommends being alert for older adults, young children, pregnant people, outdoor workers, athletes, and those with a chronic medical condition who are more at risk for negative health impacts from extreme heat. 

Make sure you:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated throughout the day. Your body loses water more rapidly through sweating to cool itself down. Drinking enough water helps you replenish the lost water and maintain proper bodily functions, prevent dehydration, and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.

• Think ahead, plan, and protect: If you need to go outside, avoid going out during the hottest hours. Wear sunscreen, lightweight and light-colored clothes and wear a hat or use an umbrella.

• Car safety: Cars get very hot inside, even with the windows ‘cracked’ or open. Never leave children or pets in cars. Call 911 if you see a child or pet in a car alone in a car.

• Recognize heat illness: Be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illness like heat exhaustion and heat stroke and know what to do to care for them. Call 911 right away if you see these symptoms: high body temperature (103°F or higher), vomiting, dizziness, confusion, and hot, red, dry, or damp skin. Heat stroke is a medical emergency.

• Check on people more at-risk: Regularly check on those at risk for heat-related illness, like those who are sick or have chronic conditions, older adults, pregnant people, children, those who live alone, pets, and outdoor workers and athletes.

• Prepare for power outages: Visit your power company’s website or contact them by phone to determine if you are scheduled for a rolling power outage.

“If we make sure to stay hydrated and keep cool, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones, friends, and neighbors,” said Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, Los Angeles County health officer. “If you have an elderly or unwell family member or neighbor, check on them regularly to ensure they are safe and well." 

County and City partners have planned ways to safely operate cooling centers during times of high heat. Residents who do not have access to air conditioning are encouraged to take advantage of these free cooling centers, splash pads, and community pools. To find a location near you, visit https://ready.lacounty.gov/heat/ or call 211.