Due to forecasted temperatures in the 80s and low 90s Tuesday through Thursday, Long Beach’s Acting City Health Officer, Dr. Cliff Okada, has issued a citywide heat advisory.
Residents are encouraged to exercise caution and protect themselves against the heat, especially on Wednesday, July 15 when the National Weather Service expects temperatures to be highest.
Long Beach Public Library locations and select City Parks, Recreation and Marine Community Centers are open to the public during their normal business hours. People are encouraged to contact community centers and library locations ahead of time to confirm they are open in the case of unexpected closures.
The Multi-Service Center (1301 W. 12th St.) will extend its hours on Wednesday, July 15, and be open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. However, case management will only be offered until 4 p.m.
Older adults, those with chronic illnesses, infants and young children are at greater risk for heat-related illnesses, but anyone can suffer from heat illness.
People are encouraged to check on friends, family and neighbors who are homebound to ensure they are not affected by the heat.
Please follow these tips to stay safe:
Stay Cool
- Stay in air-conditioned spaces during peak heat (noon to 6 p.m.) or take cool showers or baths.
- Limit activities to morning and evening hours when possible.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
Hydrate
- Drink plenty of fluids; don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine and very sugary drinks, as 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 advised to limit water by your doctor, check in with your health care provider for guidance.
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Protect Against Heat-Related Illness
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher at least 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat.
- Make sure pets have access to shade. 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
Get medical help right away if a person’s temperature rises to 103 degrees or higher; if a person loses consciousness; if a person experiences a fast, strong pulse; or if symptoms last longer than one hour or worsen. Other signs of heat-related illness include:
- Heavy sweating
- Cold, pale and clammy skin
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Confusion
Swimming pools are a popular way to cool off, but it is important to provide entry-proof barriers around pools and spas and always provide adult supervision while children are near water.
For more information on heat safety, cooling centers and available resources, visit longbeach.gov/extremeheat. People are also encouraged to follow the Health Department on Facebook, X and Instagram.
