Golden State Today

With temperatures set to exceed 110 degrees throughout much of the state this week, Governor Gavin Newsom is urging Californians to take extra precautions as they celebrate the Fourth of July.

The Governor directed the Office of Emergency Services to activate its State Operations Center and move into Phase II of its Extreme Temperature Response Plan. This action is triggered by National Weather Service (NWS) predictions of excessive heat activity and moves the state into action to coordinate an all-hands response by state government.

The state has already begun outreach to a network of community organizations to ensure the most vulnerable Californians can access resources like cooling centers. Additionally, the state is enforcing heat protections for outdoor workers.

Excessive heat warnings and watches are in effect for much of California starting Tuesday through the end of the week and weekend. NWS is forecasting extreme heat risk for many parts of the state, with hot conditions between 105 and 115 degrees for multiple days and little overnight relief. Extreme heat kills more Americans every year than all other extreme weather, including wildfires and flooding.

"This heatwave is serious. We’re used to hot temperatures in California but this will be several days with little relief overnight," said Governor Gavin Newsom. "As we come together this week to celebrate the Fourth of July, look out for each other and take steps to stay safe. Don’t let this heat catch you by surprise, California."

Residents are advised on how they can stay safer from extreme heat:

Stay cool during the hottest times of the day:

- Those without air conditioning should consider going to a cooling center or visit a public location such as a library or shopping mall.

- Avoid physical exertion or exercising outdoors.

- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Stay hydrated:

- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water; drink sports drinks (in moderation with water) to help replace electrolytes lost during exercise.

- Avoid sugary, alcoholic, and very cold drinks.

- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Stay connected:

- Monitor those at higher risk of heat-related illness including infants and young children; people 65 years or older; individuals with chronic illness, disabilities or who are pregnant.

- Check on neighbors – call or visit higher-risk people and offer assistance with groceries or medication.

- Use a buddy system when working in the heat.

Stay informed:

- Check local news for weather forecasts, extreme heat alerts, and cooling centers.

Stay safe outdoors:

Warm summer weather is causing continued snow melt from winter’s record snowpack resulting in colder and faster water that continues today. Residents are reminded always to be safe around water:

- Ensure everyone wears properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets available on loan from various public entities.

- Supervise children by appointing a designated “water watcher.”

- Know your limits as swimming in natural bodies of water differs from pools.

- Seek help from lifeguards if someone is in distress or call 9-1-1 if one is not available.