Unseasonably hot temperatures Friday and Saturday prompted the National Weather Service to issue a Heat Advisory for all of Santa Barbara County.
Many other parts of southwestern California also were included in the advisory, which warns people to limit their time in the sun and stay hydrated in the face of daytime temperatures “well above normal for this time of year.”
The advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. Saturday.
Santa Barbara and other parts of the South Coast are expected to hit the low 90s Friday and Saturday, then drop to the high 80s on Sunday and Monday.
The Santa Ynez Valley should see temperatures peak at 101 degrees Friday, the Santa Maria Valley will be in the mid-90s, and the Lompoc Valley will be around 90 degrees.
Temperatures will be cooler at the beaches and other coastal areas, and higher inland and in the foothills and mountains, according to the NWS.
Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles, the NWS says.
“Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening,” the Heat Advisory says.
“Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.
“Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9-1-1.”
Recreation and trails groups advise against hiking during hot weather, and many front-country trailheads now have heat-illness information on their signs.
Last year, a local high school student died from heat illness after hiking the Jesusita Trail with friends.
Signs of heat-related illness can include tiredness or weakness, loss of appetite or feeling sick, thirst, headache, dizziness, nausea, heavy sweating or no sweating at all, confusion, irregular skin changes, irregular pulse, muscle cramps and losing consciousness.
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