California Takes Action During October Heat Wave

Image: National Weather Service HeatRisk Map (Oct. 2, 2024 9:48 AM PDT)

With unusually high temperatures forecast for the first week of October in some parts of the state, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is working in partnership with state agencies to promote heat safety and resources to help residents stay safe. 

The National Weather Service expects extreme heat and record highs, with excessive heat warnings in 20 counties in the Bay Area, Central Coast, Inland Empire and Southern California. Heat advisories will continue into Sunday, Oct. 6. 

“California has seen some of the hottest temperatures on record in our state, and the high temperatures are continuing into October,” said Amy Palmer, spokesperson for Cal OES. “It’s important for Californians to continue taking action to protect themselves, including checking in on friends and neighbors, who can be vulnerable to heat when they are alone.”  

• Cal OES is promoting cooling centers open statewide and has issued guidance for how to ensure cooling centers meet the needs of individuals with access and functional needs.   

• The Listos California disaster resiliency campaign, anchored at Cal OES, has increased heat safety messaging with multi-cultural, multilingual social media posts targeting areas affected by heat. 

• The California Department of Public Health is warning about the signs of heat illnesses like heat stroke and heat exhaustion and tips for cooling off and offers guidance for schools and community groups about heat safety. 

In addition to the threats from heat, state authorities are continuing to monitor critical fire weather conditions through Thursday across the central Coast and across portions of Southern California, especially in the mountains.