LONG BEACH, CA – The National Weather Service issued an Excessive Heat Advisory for Los Angeles County for Wednesday, August 31 to Monday, Sep. 5.
The Heat Advisory will begin at 11 a.m. on Wednesday and will remain in effect until 8 p.m. on Monday.
The advisory cautions the need to prepare as temperatures are set to reach as high as 105 degrees. This heat wave is expected to affect Los Angeles County including Long Beach and Downtown Los Angeles as well as parts of Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.
According to the National Weather Service, a Heat Advisory is issued within 12 hours of the onset of extremely dangerous heat conditions. The general rule of thumb for issuing the Advisory is when the maximum heat index temperature is expected to be 100 degrees or higher for at least two days, and nighttime 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.
Weather officials have released precautionary and preparedness actions to combat the heat 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.