Temperatures in Santa Barbara County could hit the low- to mid-90s this week, with showers possible on Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.

Santa Barbara is “heading towards a bit of a hotter week,” meteorologist Kristan Lund told Noozhawk.

Temperatures are expected to be in the high 80s and mid- to low-90s through Friday. Temperatures will be slightly higher in North County areas.

The Weather Service issued a heat advisory Monday afternoon for large parts of southwest California, warning that temperatures of 10 to 20 degrees above normal are possible.

That advisory will remain in effect from 10 a.m. Wednesday to 8 p.m. Thursday.

Temperatures in most areas will peak on Wednesday; along Santa Barbara’s South Coast, the heat will “likely” peak on Thursday, per the advisory notice.

There is a possibility the heat advisory may be extended through Friday, per the Weather Service.

There is also a “slight chance” of off-and-on showers throughout the county on Tuesday as “tropical moisture continues to stream over the area… It won’t always rain the whole time,” Lund added.

Overall, this week will be “really muggy,” with elevated lows and “not a ton of relief overnight,” she emphasized.

Lund recommended community members spend as much time in air-conditioned areas as possible and stay hydrated.

“Make sure to check on loved ones,” she added.

The area will remain under a beach hazards statement through Tuesday evening, with dangerous and potentionally life threatening rip currents expected.

That statement covers Santa Barbara County’s central, southwestern and southeastern coasts, as well as San Luis Obispo County beaches.

“There is an increased risk of ocean drowning,” the National Weather Service said in a Sunday reminder. “Rip currents will be widespread and very strong, potentially pulling swimmers and surfers out to sea. Waves can wash people off beaches and rocks

High tides of 6.5 feet are expected at around 7:30 p.m. Monday and 8:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Public Health Tips to Stay Cool

County officials sent out precautions and tips to stay cool during hot weather:

Do not leave children (and pets) unattended in vehicles. It takes only a matter of minutes on a relatively mild day for a vehicle to reach deadly temperatures.

Drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic beverages, especially those without sugar or caffeine. Do not wait until you are thirsty to drink. If you have fluid restrictions from your doctor, ask to see how much you should drink while the weather is hot.

Avoid hazardous activities that may cause sparks and start a wildfire, such as using lawn care equipment and towing with dragging chains along roadways.

Take care of those who might not be aware of high temperature dangers or be able to react accordingly — especially the elderly, young children, and pets. Check on your neighbors.

Limit outdoor activity. Try to schedule outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as morning and evening hours. Be sure to wear sunscreen and rest often.

For those who work outside, be sure to take frequent rest breaks in a shaded area or air-conditioned room, if possible. Stay hydrated and take action by moving to a cooler space if you feel signs of heat exhaustion.

Take regular breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned room. A few hours in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler. Taking a cool shower or bath can help, too.

If you do not have air conditioning, consider arranging to spend at least parts of the day at another space that is cool. Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, they will not prevent heat-related illness.

Wear appropriate clothing. Lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing works best.

Know the signs of heat exhaustion. If someone becomes dizzy, nauseated or sweats heavily, find a cooler location for him or her immediately.

Know the signs of heat stroke. Heat stroke is much more serious than heat exhaustion. The symptoms are similar to heat exhaustion, but also include hot, flushed skin. With heat stroke, the person often stops sweating and the skin will be unusually dry. If heat stroke is a possibility, call 9-1-1 immediately. Heat stroke is life-threatening!