Riverside County Temperatures to Hit Triple Digits This Week

With temperatures expected to reach triple digits throughout Riverside County this week, health officials are reminding residents to take precautions to protect themselves against the excessive heat.

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for Riverside County that runs through the week. Some areas of the Coachella Valley are predicted to reach 120 degrees during the week.

“High temperatures in portions of Riverside County are nothing new, but those being predicted during the week can be very unsafe, particularly for those who are very young, very old and those with underlying health conditions,” said Dr. Geoffrey Leung, public health officer for Riverside County. “You do not want to ignore the potential for harm.”

Leung urged residents to limit outdoor activities to early mornings or after sunset, and cut back altogether physically strenuous activities, like outdoor jogging or work outs. Clothing should be lighter fabrics and a wide-brimmed hat. Residents and workers in the Coachella Valley should be careful, even for those who believe they are acclimated to the heat.

“Being out in these types of temperatures for even a short period of time can be harmful,” Leung said.  “Taking extra precautions can make a big difference.”

Officials are urging residents to visit one of more than 40 cool centers located throughout the county. Individuals who are particularly susceptible to excessive heat, including the elderly and families with young children, are encouraged to visit a cool center. The centers will provide snacks and water, in addition to activities.

Leung reminded those who will be driving long distances to check their vehicles to make sure they are running properly and to carry extra water in the car. Drivers are also urged to never leave children, the elderly or pets in a parked vehicle even for a short period of time.

People with the following symptoms should try to remain in a cool place and drink water to prevent dehydration:

-- Headache

--Dizziness

--Weakness or muscle pains

--Nausea and vomiting

The cool centers are coordinated by Community Action Partnership of Riverside County.