Heat Advisory issued for Los Angeles County as Temperatures Climb

As the weather heats up in Los Angeles County, a Heat Advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service, cautioning residents to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities in the heat, and more.

LONG BEACH, CA – On. Feb. 9, the National Weather Service issued a Heat Advisory for Los Angeles County. Winter temperatures, which hit record lows across the country these last few weeks, have quickly risen in Southern California and with it – so has concern from weather officials. 

The Heat Advisory, which will remain in effect until 6 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 13, cautions the need to prepare as temperatures are set to reach as high or higher than 90 degrees. This heat wave is expected to affect all of Los Angeles County including Long Beach and Downtown Los Angeles.

A Heat Advisory is issued within 12 hours of the onset of extremely dangerous heat conditions. The general rule of thumb for this Advisory is when the maximum heat index temperature is expected to be 100 degrees or higher for at least two days, and night time air temperatures will not drop below 75 degrees; however, these criteria vary across the country, especially for areas that are not used to dangerous heat conditions (https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat-ww). 

In addition to the heat, a Wind Advisory goes into effect on Feb. 10 from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is expected to boast northeast winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 45 mph, mainly along the Malibu coast. Gusty winds can blow around unsecured objects and make driving difficult. Drivers, as well as pedestrians, are cautioned to be aware of tree limbs blown down due to the winds. Power outages may also occur as these winds make their impact.

Weather officials have released precautionary and preparedness actions to combat both the heat and the wind, which can be found via most weather websites and apps. According to accuweather.com, the list includes the following:

• Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.
• Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
• Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
• Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.
• Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency, Call 911.

As Super Bowl Sunday rapidly approaches, so does the continuation of the heat wave. Health officials as well as City officials are urging those who can legally partake in the consumption of alcohol to do so, responsibly. 

In addition to safe driving practices, responsible consumption, and other safe practices – alcohol drinkers also should consider the affects the heat may have on them.

Drinking alcohol in hot weather may lead to extreme cases of dehydration and cause dizziness, muscle cramps, disorientation, fatigue, impaired judgment, and heat stroke. (https://www.flushinghospital.org/). For more information on current heat and wind advisories, as well as ways to prepare, visit https://www.weather.gov/safety/.

By Alysia Burke