Stock up on ice-cold drinks and bring out the fans because it’s going to be a hot week for Santa Barbara County.
An extreme heat warning is in effect from Tuesday to Thursday, with peak high temperatures expected on Wednesday. Significant fire conditions are also expected because of sundowner winds and low humidity.
The Santa Barbara South Coast can expect temperatures in the mid-80s on Tuesday and Thursday, with Wednesday expected to reach the mid-90s. Nighttime temperatures are expected to drop to the mid-to low 70s.
In the evening, South Coast residents can expect sundowner winds of 35 to 55 mph, creating critical fire conditions late Tuesday and Wednesday night, according to Devin Black, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.
In Santa Maria, temperatures are expected to be in the low 80s, peaking in the mid-80s on Wednesday. The evenings are expected to cool down to the mid-60s.
The Santa Ynez Valley is expected to see temperatures in the mid-90s on Tuesday and Thursday, with a peak temperature of 101 on Wednesday.
Temperatures are expected to return to normal on Friday and last through the weekend, according to Black.
Those wanting to flee to the beach to try to escape the heat should know that there is a beach hazard warning in effect through Wednesday evening.
Dangerous rip currents, breaking waves and an elevated surf of 3 feet to 5 feet are expected throughout county beaches.
Those conditions create an increased risk of drowning as rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea, and high waves can wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats.
Black said minor coastal flooding is unlikely, but it’s possible in the evenings.
To stay safe during the heat wave, Black recommended staying inside or going to a cooler area, drinking plenty of water and cool beverages, wearing light clothing, and avoiding outdoor activity.
The Santa Barbara County Office of Emergency Management recommended avoiding hazardous activities that could start a wildfire and to check on elderly neighbors and others sensitive to hot conditions.
