LOS ANGELES (CNS) — The pre-summer heatwave blazing across the Southland this week is raising fears of heat-related illnesses, strain on the power grid and the possibility of brush fires that could quickly spread in the hot and dry conditions.
And the hot conditions are expected to continue. The National Weather Service said excessive heat watches will be in effect for the San Fernando, San Gabriel and Santa Clarita valleys through Friday evening, June 18. During the advisories, temperatures between 90 and 102 degrees are expected. For the excessive heat watch, temperatures could reach 106.
Forecasters said the Antelope Valley in Los Angeles County could see temperatures ranging from 106 to 112 degrees during the heat wave, increasing the risk “for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.”
The California Independent System Operator, which manages the state’s power grid, released a statement saying the agency “is closely monitoring weather conditions in preparation for excessive heat warnings in many parts of the state.”
“While we don’t anticipate rotating power outages at this time, we are headed into record-breaking high heat territory for certain areas through Friday, and we may call a Flex Alert if needed,” according to Cal-ISO.
A Flex Alert is a voluntary call for residents to conserve power during peak hours to reduce strain on the grid.
“We are working to give the public as much advance notice as possible that high heat could lead to a Flex Alert later this week, while raising awareness about the benefits of energy conservation during Flex Alerts,” according to Cal-ISO. “Californians have typically been very responsive to Flex Alerts, and we are always impressed and thankful for their efforts.”
The agency declared a “restricted maintenance operation” condition that will be in effect through Friday due to the forecasted high temperatures and demand. The declaration warns that all available resources will be needed to maintain supply, and calls on suppliers to defer scheduled maintenance on generators and transmission lines if possible.
The warning reminds everyone in the affected regions to take precautions to avoid heat-related illness, especially older adults, young children, outdoor workers, athletes, and people with chronic medical conditions.
Public Health officials issued the following recommendations to stay safe during high temperature days:
— 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; and
— If you are wearing a mask, avoid strenuous workouts wearing face coverings or masks not intended for athletic purposes.
“While it is very important that everyone take special care of themselves, it is equally important that we reach out and check on others, in particular those who are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of high temperatures, including children, the elderly, and their pets,” said Los Angeles County Health Officer Muntu Davis. “High temperatures are not just an inconvenience, they can be dangerous and even deadly.”
County and city partners operate cooling centers during times of high heat. Residents who do not have access to air conditioning are encouraged to take advantage of free cooling centers. To find a location, visit https://ready.lacounty.gov/heat/ or call 211.