Triple-Digit Heat Continues In RivCo During Late-Summer Heat Wave

RIVERSIDE, CA — An excessive heat warning remains in effect through at least 8 p.m. Tuesday in the Inland Empire, while a statewide Flex Alert was extended Sunday as the region continues to swelter under a long, punishing heat wave.

"Extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat- related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities," according to the National Weather Service.
Saturday's high temperatures were well over 100 degrees across Riverside County, with Coachella taking the lead at 116 degrees and Palm Springs following at 114 degrees. It was 104 degrees in downtown Riverside and 107 in Hemet.

Meanwhile, the California Independent System Operator, which manages the state's power grid, said another Flex Alert would be in effect from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday — the fifth consecutive statewide alert — and asked residents to minimize power consumption whenever possible due to elevated demand.

"With excessive heat in the forecast across much of the state and Western U.S., the grid operator is expecting high electricity demand ... and is calling for voluntary conservation steps to help balance supply and demand," according to Cal-ISO.

• Set thermostats to 78 degrees or higher.
• Avoid use of major appliances.
• Turn off unnecessary lights.
• Avoid charging electric vehicles.

Residents were also advised to pre-cool their homes as much as possible, and close blinds and drapes to keep interiors cool.

The extreme heat and low humidity are ratcheting up wildfire dangers. So far, only small-scale brushers have erupted in Riverside County, causing little damage.

"High pressure will persist over the area creating a prolonged period of very hot conditions with minimal coastal clouds," the NWS said.

"Triple-digit heat is expected for many valley and mountain locations through early next week, including coastal areas during the Sunday and Labor Day peak," the agency said. "This heat may be record-breaking and will produce a very high risk of heat illness."

Health officials advise residents to stay indoors with air conditioning whenever possible, drink plenty of fluids and avoid hiking or other strenuous activity in extreme heat.

Children and pets should never be left in unattended vehicles for even one minute.

Cooling centers for Riverside County can be found at www.capriverside.org/cool-centers.

City News Service