As Southern California was just beginning to recover from its last heatwave with a brief spell of cooler temperatures, another scorching heatwave has arrived. Wednesday, October, 2, 2024, is expected to bring the hottest day yet in this record-breaking early autumn surge. According to the National Weather Service, dangerously high temperatures will impact valley, mountain, and inland areas across the region.
Several locations already reported record-breaking highs on Tuesday including these SoCal cities below:
- Woodland Hills (113°F)
- Palmdale (104°F)
- Lancaster (103°F)
- Paso Robles (107°F)
- Sandberg (95°F)
Heat warnings and advisories are in effect until 8 p.m. Thursday, with temperatures expected to exceed 100°F in many areas, including the Inland Empire, where Riverside, Rancho Cucamonga, and Corona could see highs near 108°F.
With the extreme heat, it’s essential to stay safe during this heatwave. Here are a few key tips:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Stay Indoors: If possible, stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day when the sun is at its peak.
- Use Air Conditioning or Fans: Keep your home cool, or visit a cooling center, mall, or library if you don’t have access to AC.
- Avoid Strenuous Activities: Postpone outdoor activities or exercise during the hottest hours.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Regularly check on pets, elderly family members, neighbors, and those with chronic conditions who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illness.
For a full list of tips on staying safe during a heatwave, visit the NWS Heat Safety Tips here.
The severe heat has also increased the risk of wildfires, prompting a red flag warning. The Line Fire, which has burned over 44,000 acres in the San Bernardino Mountains, saw a flare-up over the weekend as temperatures soared. The fire is believed to have been intentionally set last month and continues to pose a threat. In light of these dangers, we’ve put together a Wildfire Safety Guide for those living in proximity to at-risk areas, offering essential tips on evacuation, preparation, and fire safety.
While forecasters are predicting a slight cool down by Thursday and Friday, the heat is expected to return heading into the weekend. Stay safe, be prepared.