Southern Californians Baking In Record-Setting Temperatures On Official Start Of Summer
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Southern Californians are baking in record-breaking temperatures Monday - the official start of summer.
According to the National Weather Service, an excessive heat warning remains in effect through 8 p.m. with temperatures soaring to more than 120 degrees in some parts of the Southland.
Red flag warnings will also be in force until 8 p.m. Tuesday in the Los Angeles mountains, excluding the Santa Monica range.
The warning will be in effect through 10 a.m. Tuesday for the Santa Barbara mountains and south coast where the Sherpa Fire continues to burn.
In the Angeles National Forest, two fires there scorched at least 3,500 acres above Azusa and Duarte.
At one point, more than 20,000 Southern California Edison customers were without power.
Officials recommended having flashlights ready and keeping a phone charger in cars in case of power outages.
The extreme heat can pose danger to kids engaging in outdoor activities including summer camp. CBS2/KCAL9's Kristine Lazar takes a look how some of the children are faring in the extreme heat.
The Department of Public Health has these safety tips to beat the heat:
- Keep an eye on media reports for the latest weather forecasts and information from local officials
- Learn the warning signs of heat-related illnesses
- Stay out of direct sunlight and keep hydrated
- Reduce physical activity
- Identify a cool location, such as a small library, theater or designated cooling center
- Use cool compresses, misting and baths to lower body temperatures
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and wear sunscreen
- Make sure to check on pets, friends, family and neighbors who may be especially sensitive to excessive heat
- Anyone who becomes overcome by high temperatures should call 911.
Pet owners should watch for signs of heat stroke including fast and noisy breathing, difficulty swallowing and distressed behavior.
If heat stroke is suspected, pet owners should place a cold, wet towel on the back of the animal's head, and a towel-wrapped cold compress on their back legs and belly. The pet should be immediately taken to a veterinarian to be checked.
