Sonoma County Health Officials Issue Heat Alert

Press release from the Sonoma County Government:

June 15, 2021

En Español

SONOMA COUNTY, CA — The County of Sonoma Department of Health Services has issued a Heat Alert in response to the National Weather Service's prediction of consecutive days of 90 to 100- plus degree temperatures on Wednesday, June 16 through Friday, June 18, 2021. These weather conditions can cause heat stroke and worsen chronic medical conditions, leading to severe complications and death. Sonoma County Deputy Health Officer Dr. Kismet Baldwin urges residents to take simple steps to stay cool and help prevent heat-related illnesses.

"Extreme heat can pose dangers, but there are many things we can do to reduce heat-related problems,” said Dr. Baldwin. “While summertime heat can be dangerous for anyone, including young, healthy people, those most at risk include older adults, young children and those with chronic medical conditions such as heart, breathing or lung conditions."

To protect yourself and your family when the weather is very hot, follow the tips below:

“As always, during emergency times we must continue to look out for one another,” said Lynda Hopkins, Chair of the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. “Keep in close contact with family, friends and neighbors who are medically fragile or work outdoors. It’s important to remind one another to seek shade, drink water and get medical assistance if signs of heat fatigue become prevalent.”

For those experiencing homelessness, the Coordinated Entry System is available to offer shelter, services and housing. The program prioritizes those who are most in need of assistance and provides crucial information that helps communities strategically allocate resources and identify gaps in service. Sonoma County’s Coordinated Entry system employs a Housing First model that prioritizes individuals and families facing the highest vulnerability and needs for permanent, supportive housing. Contact Coordinated Entry Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at: (866) 542-5480 or email CE@srcharities.org.

For more information about keeping cool in the summer heat, visit the County Emergency information website: www.socoemergency.org/heat or call 2-1-1. Updates on weather conditions are available from the National Weather Service www.weather.gov.

This press release was produced by the Sonoma County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.