With sweltering temperatures expected through Thursday, Aug. 20, Acting City Health Officer Dr. Cliff Okada has issued a citywide Heat Alert in Long Beach.
The National Weather Service is forecasting temperatures in the high 80s and low 90s throughout the city, with humidity making it feel potentially several degrees hotter.
Twenty local locations, including eight Parks, Recreation and Marine Community Centers and all 12 Long Beach Public Library locations, will operate as designated cooling centers during their normal business hours to help combat the risk of heat-related illnesses.
To check for unexpected closures, residents can call their preferred cooling center in advance to ensure they are open.
The Long Beach Multi-Service Center (1301 W. 12th St.) will also offer extended hours through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.mCase management will only be available until 4 p.m.
Even though older adults, those with chronic illnesses, infants and young children are at increased risk of heat-related illnesses, anyone can be impacted. Residents are advised to check on friends, family and neighbors who are home-bound.
Additionally, those who have personal spas or swimming pools are encouraged to set up entry-proof barriers and closely supervise children while they’re by the water.
To further beat the heat, the City’s Department of Health and Human Services recommends adhering to the following tips:
Stay Cool
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
- Limit activities to morning and evening hours when possible.
- Stay in air-conditioned spaces during peak heat hours (noon to 6 p.m.) or take cool showers or baths.
Hydrate
- Drink plenty of fluids; don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
- Stay away from alcohol, caffeine and very sugary drinks; they can be dehydrating.
- Replace salt and minerals lost during sweating with sports drinks or salty snacks.
- Make sure pets have plenty of water.
- If you have a chronic health condition, are on water pills or have been recommended to limit water by your doctor, check in with your health care provider for guidance.
Protect Against Heat-Related Illness
- Apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat.
- Make sure pets have access to shade and water. Be aware that asphalt can burn pets’ paws.
- Wear sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection. Chronic exposure to the sun can cause cataracts.
- Never leave a child or pet in a parked car or asleep in direct sunlight.
Signs of Heat-Related Illness
If a person’s temperature rises to 103 F or above, they lose consciousness, they experience a fast, strong pulse, or their symptoms last longer than one hour or worsen, they are encouraged to seek medical attention right away.
In addition to those listed above, signs of heat-related illness include:
- Heavy sweating
- Cold, pale and clammy skin
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Confusion
For more information, visit longbeach.gov/extremeheat and keep up with Long Beach Health Department updates on Facebook, X and Instagram.
