By SDCN Staff
San Diego, CA–An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect for portions of San Diego County as forecasters warn of dangerously high temperatures, strong Santa Ana winds and increased wildfire danger.
The National Weather Service issued the warning beginning Friday morning, with extreme heat expected to continue through next Thursday. Temperatures are forecast to reach the 90s near the coast and climb into the 100s in inland valleys.
Warm overnight temperatures could make it difficult for residents to cool down, while hot, dry and windy conditions are expected to increase the potential for wildfires.
The combination of extreme heat and Santa Ana winds also has prompted San Diego Gas & Electric to warn customers about the possibility of Public Safety Power Shutoffs, or PSPS, through Oct. 5. The utility may shut off power in areas where weather conditions create an elevated wildfire risk.
Residents can monitor the SDG&E PSPS Dashboard for information about potentially affected communities and additional updates as conditions change.
Officials recommend charging cellphones, flashlights and medical devices before conditions worsen. Residents are also encouraged to cool their homes early in the day, keep an adequate supply of drinking water on hand and monitor official emergency alerts.
If indoor temperatures become unsafe, residents are encouraged to seek relief at designated Cool Zones or other air-conditioned locations. Families and neighbors should also establish communication plans in case of a power outage.
Hot, dry and windy conditions can coincide with Red Flag periods, increasing the potential for rapidly spreading wildfires.
County officials are urging residents to avoid activities that could ignite fires, safely dispose of cigarettes and secure trailer chains and other equipment that could create sparks. Residents are also encouraged to keep emergency go-kits ready.
Officials are reminding pet owners to take precautions as temperatures rise.
Pets should be kept indoors when possible, provided with continuous access to clean drinking water and limited to outdoor activity during the cooler early-morning or evening hours. They should never be left unattended inside a parked vehicle, even for a short period.
County emergency teams are continuing to monitor weather and fire conditions and coordinate with public-safety agencies throughout the heat event. County departments are also contacting vulnerable residents in areas that could be most affected.
Residents are encouraged to remain alert to changing weather conditions and follow instructions from local emergency officials and utility providers.
