Extreme Heat Warning for Southern California Brings Health Advisories and Potential Power Shutoffs

Southern California is under an Extreme Heat Warning through Friday, as the National Weather Service forecasts dangerously hot weather. In response, the region's largest utility is considering public safety power shutoffs for thousands of customers, while health officials are urging residents to take precautions.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued a warning, urging residents to stay cool and hydrated as high daytime temperatures and unusually warm overnight conditions are expected to impact the region. The National Weather Service's warning, covering Tuesday through Friday, warns of dangerously hot weather creating a high risk of heat-related illness for everyone.

Temperatures are forecast to reach triple digits in inland communities, according to CBS LA Chief Meteorologist Paul Deanno. Deanno highlighted a remarkable weather event: for the first time since 1885, Los Angeles will see three consecutive August days with high temperatures surpassing 100 degrees.

The extreme heat has also escalated the risk of fast-moving fires, prompting Southern California Edison to consider public safety power shutoffs (PSPS). Scott Johnson, principal manager of media relations at the utility, explained that a PSPS is when power is temporarily turned off to reduce wildfire risk, based on factors such as strong winds, dry vegetation, and low humidity.

"Between now and Thursday, there are approximately 5,000 customers who have been notified that they could result in having their power deactivated," Johnson said, affecting customers across Inyo, Los Angeles, Mono, and Santa Barbara counties. As of Tuesday afternoon, the shutoffs being considered would affect approximately 3,938 customers in Los Angeles County, 1,324 in Santa Barbara County, 304 in Inyo County, and 111 in Mono County.

Residents have been notified and the utility has provided resources. Johnson said community resource centers are opened where residents can cool off, and crew vehicles are deployed to assist affected residents. Customers can also apply for rebates on portable generators and power stations. Johnson advised residents to power up chargers and batteries and keep a flashlight ready if the power goes off in the evening.

"For this public safety power shutoff time period, we began notifying customers already on Saturday," Johnson said, adding that "there really is nothing more important than protecting the communities we serve, and public safety power shutoffs are an important tool in keeping people safe."

Health Risks and Public Health Advice

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health emphasized that taking precautions is the most important way to prevent heat-related illness, such as exhaustion, stroke, and cramps, as well as heat-related death, in a news release. Health Officer Muntu Davis pointed out: "Heat causes more deaths in the U.S. annually than floods, storms, and lightning combined."

The department advises residents to stay hydrated throughout the day, even if not feeling thirsty, and to avoid going out during the hottest hours. If going outdoors, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, a hat or umbrella, and sunscreen.

Residents should keep their homes cool, and if they cannot, they are advised to go to an air-conditioned space or cooling center. Never leave children or pets in vehicles, even for a short time, as cars can become dangerously hot, and call 911 if you see a child or pet alone.

For those without air conditioning, public health recommends taking cool showers or baths, using the stove and oven less, and visiting a library or shopping mall. Calling 211 can help people find a cool space. Signs of heat illness requiring immediate attention include high body temperature (103°F or higher), dizziness, nausea, passing out, headache, fast and strong pulse, confusion, and hot, red, dry or damp skin. In such cases, call 911 right away.

Check on those at higher risk, such as older adults, young children, outdoor workers, athletes, and people with chronic conditions.