Heat dome brings California’s first heat wave of the season: What residents need to know

After months of lower-than-average, chilly, and sometimes wet weather, California will see its first heat wave of the season, thanks to a heat dome impacting much of the western U.S.

In response to the uptick in temperatures, officials are asking the public to stay hydrated, avoid sugary, alcoholic, and very cold drinks, and avoid outdoor exercising when it’s too hot.  

Here’s what Californians need to know:

What is a Heat Dome

A heat dome is defined as a “hot air mass that develops when high pressure aloft prevents warm air below from rising, thus trapping the warm air as if it were in a dome,” according to the American Meteorological Society Glossary.

When a heat dome occurs, higher-than-usual temperatures are expected. In this case, forecasters say places like Phoenix, Las Vegas, and parts of Texas could see triple-digit temperatures.

What areas of California will be impacted the most

In the Golden State, the inland mountain and desert communities, like Lancaster, Palmdale, Santa Clarita, and Sacramento, could see triple-digit temperatures.

Californians can see the forecasted temperature for their area by clicking here.

The extreme heat is expected to last until Thursday night.

How to stay cool during the extreme heat

In addition to staying hydrated, wearing loose-fitted, bright-colored clothes and avoiding outdoor exercising when it is too hot, officials also advise the public to:

• Stay cool by staying in the shade when outside or setting air conditioners between 75 and 80 degrees and closing windows, shades and blinds when inside.
• If those options aren’t feasible, people can also visit nearby cooling centers. A list of ones across California can be found here.
• Drink at least 2 cups of water every hour, even if you’re not feeling thirsty.
• Check in on friends and family, especially elderly relatives or neighbors. Call 911 in cases of a high fever or other emergencies.
• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
• Wear sunscreen

More tips on how to prepare for extreme heat can be found here.