Community Corner
Heat Wave Hits Concord
Triple-digit temperatures in the area mean a heat advisory will be in effect this weekend. Here's how to stay cool and avoid heat-related illness.
A heat advisory for inland areas will be issued Saturday at 11 a.m., according to the National Weather Service, and is likely to continue throughout the weekend.
The hottest day in the region will likely either be Sunday or Monday, when temperatures in Concord will hit triple digits.
Hot temperatures are due to continue until mid-week before cooling off in time for the Fourth of July.
One option for those sweating it out in inland areas like Concord is to visit a cooling center, many of which are opening this weekend and next week.
Throughout Contra Costa County, the county's Area Agency on Aging has opened centers to help seniors cool off in many cities including Danville, Antioch, Concord, San Ramon, Pinole and Walnut Creek.
Agency officials also advise heading to a shopping mall, library, movie theater, restaurant or senior center to get a respite from the heat.
Public health officials from throughout the region are advising residents to stay healthy in the sweltering temperatures.
Health officials advise staying hydrated, wearing light-colored clothing, wearing sunscreen and getting out of direct sunlight.
Animals should have plenty of water and not spend too much time outdoors. Most importantly, pet owners are reminded to never leave a pet in the car.
On a warm day, conditions inside a car could prove fatal, with temperatures in a non-ventilated space reaching up to 160 degrees in mere minutes, according to humane society officials.
Water agencies encourage residents to be smart about water use during the heat wave. People will be inclined to increase water use, but residents are asked to irrigate lawns and outdoor spaces overnight and cover pools and hot tubs to avoid evaporation.
Additionally, people are advised to water outdoor spaces in two short cycles rather than one long watering session.
State officials are also warning residents to prepare for the excessive heat. More information about staying healthy, cool and hydrated is available at www.calema.ca.gov/PlanningandPreparedness/Pages/Heat.aspx.
How do you plan to stay cool during the heat wave? Comment below.
Bay City News contribute to this report.
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