Golden State Today

With extreme heat expected from Tuesday through Thursday as the summer season begins, California is taking measures to ensure public safety through outreach efforts, safety resources, and state action.

SACRAMENTO – With a heatwave affecting much of inland California this week, Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the state's preparedness and response efforts. He urged Californians to take precautions against extreme heat. Excessive heat watches and warnings are in effect starting today. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), temperatures in the Central Valley may reach up to 105 degrees, with Death Valley National Park likely reaching 118-121 degrees.

Given this extreme weather, the state has entered phase 2 of its Extreme Temperature Response Plan. This plan is activated by NWS predictions of excessive heat activity and mobilizes a coordinated response by the state government.

"Extreme heat can be deadly. Together, let’s do everything we can to stay safe. The state is taking action to protect and inform communities and Californians should take steps now to protect themselves from the heat. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay connected," said Governor Gavin Newsom.

As climate change intensifies heat waves, extreme heat causes more fatalities annually than other extreme weather events such as wildfires, droughts, and floods.

Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend, Governor Newsom announced ready.ca.gov – a new platform for Californians to prepare for emergencies and extreme weather. This website is part of Listos California, which connects communities with resources before, during, and after emergencies. The Governor also visited the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) for updates on summer preparedness and peak wildfire season.

State agency actions include:

- Cal OES coordinating with local governments on regional needs. A list of local cooling centers open by county is available online.

- Cal/OSHA reminding employers to protect workers from heat illness by providing water, rest, shade, and training. Field inspectors are conducting targeted inspections at vulnerable worksites.

- The Government Operations Agency has issued temperature preparedness messaging to all state employees.

- The California Natural Resources Agency implementing actions to increase climate resilience through initiatives like green schoolyards and urban forestry.

- The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) providing a Heat & Summer Safety toolkit with resources for schools and community service providers.

To stay safe during extreme heat:

Stay cool:

- Seek air-conditioned places or visit public locations like libraries or malls.

- Avoid outdoor physical exertion.

- Wear lightweight clothing and use sunscreen.

Stay hydrated:

- Drink plenty of fluids; avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks.

- Eat fruits and vegetables.

Stay connected:

- Monitor high-risk individuals such as infants, older adults, those with chronic illnesses or disabilities.

- Check on neighbors who might need assistance.

Stay informed:

- Follow local news for weather forecasts and alerts about cooling centers.

Stay safe outdoors:

Warm summer weather continues snow melt from winter's record snowpack causing colder water temperatures in lakes and rivers. Safety tips include wearing life jackets approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and supervising children near water bodies.