August 14, 2020 – Temperatures are projected to hit 100 degrees in parts of Western Nevada County. Extreme heat impacts are expected through at least next Thursday as the longest stretch of hot weather of the season is forecast.

During this heat wave, the Nevada County Public Health Department and Office of Emergency Services would like to remind everyone that higher temperatures can be dangerous for all persons but especially the very young, senior citizens, and those with chronic medical conditions. Due to COVID-19 many traditional cooling areas are not open, so residents are encouraged to take extra precautions in planning for the heat. If residents must mix households in order to find relief with air conditioning, they should take all COVID-19 related precautions including facial covering, hand washing, 6 feet physical distancing and disinfection of high touch surfaces.

Additional tips for staying healthy in hot weather include:

• Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water* and other non-alcoholic beverages.
• Dress in loose fitting, lightweight, and light colored clothes.
• When outside, protect your face and head by wearing a wide brimmed hat.
• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks. If possible, move your outdoor activities to cooler times of the day.
• If you have access to air conditioning, use it. Fans may help as well. Stay on the lowest floor in your home and out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning.
• Never leave any person or animal in a closed vehicle.

For additional information on how to prevent heat related illness, visit: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/EPO/Pages/Extreme%20Heat%20Pages/BI_Natural- Disasters_Extreme-Heat.aspx.

For additional information on COVID-19 in Nevada County visit: https://www.mynevadacounty.com/Coronavirus.

*Warning: If your doctor limits the amount of fluid you drink, or if you take water pills, ask him or her how much you should drink when the weather is hot.

National Weather Service Sacramento, Excessive Heat Warning: https://www.weather.gov/sto/?fbclid=IwAR3hcILqDG0V38DMkMgOjKOWJuhI6v3-Ms_Nq6rWv4La- DOCQhgaSfXxRt0.