SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — The National Weather Service issued a pair of safety alerts on Wednesday due to the prolonged heat wave striking San Diego County.
An Extreme Heat Warning was issued for San Diego County deserts as temperatures are expected to reach 104 to 112 degrees in desert communities. High temperatures of up to 114 degrees could be expected on Thursday and Friday.
The warning is in effect until 8 p.m. Saturday.
San Diego faces record-shattering heat this week
A Heat Advisory was also issued on Wednesday for the San Diego County Mountain areas. Temperatures are expected to be in the lower to mid-90s for areas below 4,500 feet. In mountain areas from 4,500 to 6,500 feet, the forecast is expected in the 80s. The advisory remains in effect until 8 p.m. Friday.
San Diego County health officials warn that long periods of extreme heat can lead to serious health problems, including heat rash, sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and even death.
Several temperature records across San Diego County were broken last week during this winter heat wave, including Chula Vista reaching 92 degrees on Friday, breaking the previous record of 91 degrees set in 2015 at this time of year.
How SoCal heat waves affect parts of the region differently
The County offers advice on how to stay cool during this historic heat wave:
Stay in an air-conditioned space during the hottest hours of the day
Don’t rely on electric fans alone when temperatures exceed 90 degrees
Wear light, loose-fitting clothing
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and sugary drinks
Never leave a child, elderly person, or pet unattended in a car — even briefly
Limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day
Wear sunscreen and a wide-brim hat if you must be in the sun
Avoid using the oven to keep indoor temps lower
What to do if someone shows signs of heatstroke or heat exhaustion:
Call 911 immediately. Signs of heatstroke include dizziness, nausea, confusion and headache
Begin cooling the person right away — move them into the shade; spray them with cool water and fan them
If they are alert, place them in a cool shower if they are alert and monitor their body temperatures
DO NOT give them fluids — a person with heatstroke may not be able to swallow safely
The County uses the AlertSanDiego notification system to inform and update residents of various advisories and warnings.
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