Extreme heat warning in effect as county expands safety measures and prepares for possible power outages | News

The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for parts of San Diego County starting Friday morning. The combination of extreme heat and Santa Ana winds in the forecast brings the possibility of power outages for some SDG&E customers through October 5.

San Diego County is urging residents to prepare for possible power outages and take steps to prevent heat-related illnesses as temperatures rise.

Forecasters expect dangerously high temperatures through next Thursday, with highs in the 90s near the coast and reaching 100 in inland valleys. Low nighttime temperatures will make it harder for people to cool down, and hot, dry weather will increase the risk of wildfires across the region.

Hot, dry and windy conditions often overlap with red flag periods, increasing the risk of fast-moving hurricanes.‑move wildfires. SDG&E monitors conditions and may activate public safety power shutoffs (PSPS) if wildfire risk increases. THE PSPS Dashboard provides reality‑temporal information on potentially affected communities, and the utility will publish additional written updates as conditions change.

The municipality calls on residents to remain vigilant in the face of fires‑weather advisories, avoiding activities that can start fires, securing trailer chains, disposing of cigarettes safely, and dealing with household emergencies.‑kits ready. These prevention measures reduce the risk of inflammation and support community safety.

Stay safe in the heat

Stay informed by signing up for emergency alerts on AlertSanDiego.orgwhere you can save your phone number, receive important notifications and find preparation information.

When temperatures rise this high, the heat can be dangerous for people and pets. Extreme heat can cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke, especially in older adults, children, people with chronic illnesses, pregnant people, and outdoor workers.

Signs of heat illness include dizziness, nausea, confusion, heavy sweating, headache, or fainting. Seek help immediately if symptoms appear.

Residents should take basic steps to stay safe:

• Stay in the air‑air-conditioned spaces during heat peaks.
• Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks.
• To wear light, loose‑fitted clothing.
• Avoid using fans alone when temperatures exceed 90 degrees.
• Never leave children, elderly people or pets in vehicles.

The county’s Cool Zones, including 33 library branches and community centers, provide fresh air‑air-conditioned spaces where people can escape the heat. The County website lists all Cool Zone locations and includes an interactive map.

Effects of the Tijuana River Valley

Near the Tijuana River Valley, the county monitors hydrogen sulfide odors, which increase during heat events. The county advises residents to limit outdoor activities, close windows and circulate air.‑recirculating packaging to reduce exposure.

People can get more information at the county office Tijuana River Valley Environmental Dashboard.

Don’t forget your pets

Animals need protection from extreme heat. The county urges owners to keep pets indoors when possible, provide clean water at all times, limit outdoor activities early in the morning or evening and never leave pets in parked cars.

The county encourages power‑Outage Preparation

As possible public safety power outages approach, the county advises residents to:

• Charge phones, flashlights and medical devices.
• Cool houses at the start of the day.
• Visit cool areas if indoor temperatures reach dangerous levels.
• Prepare communication plans with family and neighbors.
• Keep water on hand and monitor official alerts.

County emergency crews continue to monitor weather and fire conditions and coordinate with the public.‑security partners to protect the community throughout the heat event. County departments are also reaching out to the vulnerable people they serve in areas that could be most impacted.