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Office of Emergency Management
communications@ceooem.lacounty.gov

Residents Advised of Extreme Heat Risks

Ongoing elevated temperatures necessitate planning ahead and taking action 

The National Weather Service has predicted ongoing elevated heat conditions for much of this week in Los Angeles County as well as other areas of California. Whether living, working, or visiting in these areas, planning ahead and taking action will protect health and safety. During this major heat wave, temperatures are expected to exceed 100 degrees in some areas of LA County, where an extreme heat warning has been issued effective from 10 a.m. Tuesday until 8 p.m. Thursday.

“Extreme heat can create serious challenges for many residents, and no one should feel they have to endure these conditions alone,” said Los Angeles County Board Chair and First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis. “I encourage everyone who needs relief from the heat to take advantage of cooling centers throughout Los Angeles County, many of which are located at local libraries, parks, and other community spaces. These resources are an important part of our shared effort to help residents stay safe and comfortable during periods of elevated temperatures.”

Humid conditions will add to the heat to potentially worsen heat impacts, according to the National Weather Service. Effects of the heat will build through the week, with warm overnight low temperatures providing little relief.

Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management Director Kevin McGowan noted, “We plan on an ongoing basis for a variety of events, including extended, excessive heat, and we urge residents to team up with us in protecting themselves and each other. Stay updated and be mindful of the high temperatures and how you can minimize their effects on you.”

• For the most up-to-date information, follow @CountyofLA and @ReadyLACounty on X, Instagram and Facebook.
• To sign up for emergency alerts, visit alert.lacounty.gov
• For emergency preparedness resources, including cooling center locations, visit

All residents are reminded of these tips for safety and comfort:

• Avoid the sun – stay indoors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. when the burning rays are strongest.
  Keep your home cool by covering windows with drapes/shades/blinds.
• Stay cool indoors – set your air conditioner between 75° to 80°. If you don’t have air conditioning, take a cool shower twice a day and visit a public air-conditioned facility. Find a Cooling Center: ready.lacounty.gov/heat
• Drink plenty of fluids – drink 2 to 4 glasses of water every hour during times of excessive heat
  
• DO NOT leave anyone, especially a child, unattended in a pool, even for “just a moment.”
• DO NOT leave anyone, including a pet, unattended in an automobile, even for “just a moment.”
• Replace salt and minerals – sweating removes salt and minerals from your body, so replenish these nutrients with low sugar fruit juices or sports drinks during exercise or when working outside.
• Avoid alcohol – alcohol can cause dehydration. Drinking alcohol within 24 hours of working in the heat can increase the risk of heat illness.
• Pace yourself – reduce physical activity and avoid exercising outdoors during peak heat hours.
• Wear appropriate clothing – wear a wide-brimmed hat and light-colored lightweight, loose-fitting clothes when you are outdoors.
• Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 15 if you need to be in the sun.
• Monitor those at high risk – check on older neighbors and family and friends who do not have air conditioning. Infants and children up to 4 years old, people who overexert during work or exercise (e.g. construction workers) and people 65 years and older are at the highest risk of heat-related illnesses.
• Keep pets safe – heat also affects your pets, keep them indoors or if they will be outside, make sure they have plenty of water and a shaded area to help them keep cool. Paws can be hurt by hot pavement.
  
• Review safety tips for power outages: ready.lacounty.gov/power-outage
• Sign up for emergency alerts: alert.lacounty.gov
• Call 9-1-1 right away if someone develops these symptoms: high body temperature (103°F or higher), dizziness, nausea, passing out, headache, fast and strong pulse, confusion, and hot, red, dry, or damp skin.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has more information for living through elevated heat by clicking here.

The Office of Emergency Management has the responsibility of comprehensively planning for, responding to and recovering from large-scale emergencies and disasters that impact Los Angeles County. OEM’s work is accomplished in partnership and collaboration with first response agencies, as well as non-profit, private sector and government partners.