Temperatures are slowly going to rise throughout San Diego County until they peak mid-week for yet another heat wave that will scorch the region.
We're well into fall but the warming trend will make it feel like summertime around the county. Due to the increase in temperatures, a heat advisory has been issued from 11 a.m. Tuesday until 5 p.m. Friday
To help locals beat the heat, several Cool Zones have been placed throughout the county. The sites offer an indoor shelter in which visitors can keep cool. Service animals will be allowed, as well.
However, some rules will be in place to keep visitors safe amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Everyone who enters a cool zone will have their temperature taken before they can be allowed in, and both visitors and staff are required to wear a facial covering. Social distancing will be mandated, and time limits may also be applied to limit each zone’s capacity, according to the county.
Here is a list of all cool zones open in the county from 12 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday:
- Alpine Branch Library: 1752 Alpine Blvd.
- Borrego Springs Library: 2580 Country Club Road
- Fallbrook Community Center: 341 Heald Lane
- Lakeside Community Center: 9841 Vine St.
- Potrero Branch Library: 24883 Potrero Valley Road
- Ramona Branch Library: 1275 Main St.
- Santa Ysabel Nature Center: 22135 Highway 79
- Spring Valley Community Center: 8735 Jamacha Blvd.
- Valley Center Branch Library: 29200 Cole Grade Road
Please note that locations are closed on county holidays unless otherwise noted.
Beating the heat
Residents can cool down with air conditioners or fans, and those who want to go outdoors during the heat wave are encouraged to wear sunscreen. Everyone should remember to drink plenty of water in order to stay hydrated.
Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke and heat cramps pose a threat during these times, especially to vulnerable communities like the elderly and children.
The Centers for Disease Control said such illnesses can be identified by symptoms that include fatigue, headache, cramping, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting and fainting. Anyone who sees someone in distress is urged to call 911 immediately.
It is also encouraged to refrain from leaving children and pets unattended in cars in order to prevent tragedy. Temperatures in an enclosed vehicle can skyrocket within just minutes, causing serious injury or even death.
