A heatwave already punishing parts of the U.S. Southwest on Monday was expected to move into California this week, prompting the forecaste...
A heatwave already punishing parts of the U.S. Southwest on Monday was expected to move into California this week, prompting the forecasters to warn of health and fire dangers.
A high-pressure ridge that built over southwestern deserts over the past few days is responsible for the unusually blistering heat this early in the year, National Weather Service meteorologist Karleisa Rogacheski said.
“Today last day of seasonable weather in California,” Rogacheski said.
California saw balmy weather on Monday, with temperatures in the upper 80s and low 90s Fahrenheit (30-35°C), but forecasts called for warming on Tuesday, spiking into the triple digits by Thursday and lasting several days.
The weather service issued an excessive heat warning for parts of southwest Arizona, including Phoenix, on Monday, predicting “dangerously hot conditions” at last through Saturday.
“Very High Heat Risk. Increase in heat-related illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Heat stroke can lead to death,” the NWS said in the advisory.
California’s dry winter left forests and brush parched, prompting worries that the heat wave could touch off wildfires.
Wildfires scorched more than 6,500 square miles (17,000 square km) of land in 2020, destroying hundreds of Californian homes during a particularly fierce fire season.
The baking weather could also strain California’s power grid as residents crank up air conditioning units across the state.
The Orange Country Register offers this high heat advice if you plan on travelling to or live in the West:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Plan your day to avoid going out during the hottest hours, and wear sunscreen
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothes, and wear a hat or use an umbrella
- Never leave children or pets in cars and call 911 if you see a child or pet in a car alone
- Beware of heat-related illness, like heat stroke and call 911 if you or someone you know is experiencing high body temperature, vomiting, and pale and clammy skin
- Check on those at risk, such as those who are sick, older adults, pregnant women, and children, and those who live alone
No comments