Excessive Heat Watch Issued for Portions of the Bay Area Beginning Friday

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat watch for portions of the Bay Area beginning Friday. Its anticipated that the hottest weather will occur over the weekend with temperatures soaring to 100+ degrees.

The excessive heat watch is in effect from Friday afternoon through Sunday evening.

IMPACTS:
Heat related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur due to prolonged exposure to hot temperatures. People most vulnerable include those who are spending a significant amount of time outdoors, those without air conditioning, young children, the elderly, and those with chronic ailments. Additional societal impacts due to people seeking relief by traveling from hotter inland areas to cooler coastal areas.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS:
Daytime temperatures for inland areas are forecast to range from the mid 90s to 108 Friday through Sunday. The peak of the heat will likely occur Saturday and Sunday. The San Francisco Bay shoreline and Santa Cruz County coast could warm to the mid 80s and lower 90s on Saturday and Sunday. For San Francisco itself, the Downtown/Bayside could warm to the lower 80s while the Pacific coastal side will peak in the upper 60s and lower 70s. Other coastal areas should remain relatively mild (70s to around 80) compared to inland areas given light onshore flow. Significant temperature differences from the coast to a few miles inland could drive an excessive number of persons towards the coast to seek relief from the heat.

Individuals are advised to check with local authorities on potential closures of parks and beaches and be aware of any special requirements for visiting such areas. Overnight lows will range from the upper 50s to mid 60s, and even 70s in the hills, which may limit the amount of typical overnight relief from the heat.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS

Monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates on this situation. Be prepared to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.