Heat Advisory September 4-5

The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory and excessive heat warning for 11 a.m. Wednesday, September 4 through 11 p.m. Thursday, September 5. Temperatures in Palo Alto are expected to be in the low 90's with moderate heat risk. There is an increased fire weather concern for higher elevations, including areas west of U.S. Highway 280 in the Palo Alto Foothills.

In addition to safety tips offered in this update, please consider checking on elderly neighbors, especially those living alone.

Take Precautions Against the Hot Weather Ahead

This level of heat affects most individuals sensitive to heat, especially those without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration. Use these tips from the National Weather Service to stay safe:

• Drink plenty of water
• Limit outdoor activity to evenings
• Never leave pets or children in a car, particularly on hot days

Save Energy, Help Statewide Electrical Grid

In addition to health risks, we are reminding residents and businesses of possible power outages with high heat due to strain on the electrical grid. Consider saving energy during the hottest days. Staff are monitoring statewide electrical grid conditions with low risk of any statewide impacts at this time. Please conserve electricity by raising air conditioning temperature slightly if possible, considering health and safety factors, close drapes and blinds to keep heat out of indoor spaces, and do not run major appliances during the heat of the day and at "peak" energy demand from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. There is potential risk for power outages caused by excessive heat. Visit cityofpaloalto.org/efficiencytips for no-cost and low-cost ways to easily save energy. Thank you for doing your part to support the whole community.

Be Aware & Prepared for Wildfire Safety

Wildfire season is in effect and with excessive heat and dry conditions, please remember to be safe and plan now. Safety reminders and resources can be found here.

Spare the Air Alert

Hot weather can impact air quality. Check for Bay Area Air Quality Management District alerts here.

Watch Out for Hot Weather Impacts & Practice Hot Weather Safety

Hot weather increases the risk of heat stroke, heat exhaustion, dehydration, hyperthermia, and heat cramps. Those with limited access to cooling including the homeless, the elderly, and children are all at highest risk. Take extra precautions to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you.

Keep cool and stay safe with these hot weather tips:

• Dress in lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors like black that absorb sun rays.
• Wear a wide-brimmed, vented hat, or use an umbrella when outdoors.
• Drink plenty of water or sports drink, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and lots of sugar as they speed up fluid loss.
• Avoid outdoor and strenuous activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Use a buddy system when working or exercising in excessive heat. Take frequent breaks if you must work outdoors.
• Use air conditioning and remain in cool places during the day. Find a cooling center if you don't have access to air conditioning at home, details below.
• Never leave people or pets in a closed, parked car.
• Check on your pets frequently and provide them with plenty of water.
• Minimize direct exposure to the sun. Sunburn reduces your body's ability to dissipate heat. Wearing sunscreen is the easiest way to protect your skin from the sun.
• Keep window coverings closed during the day to block the sun's heat.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Eat light, cool, easy-to-digest foods such as fruit or salads.
• Take a cool bath or shower if you feel yourself overheating. Use moist towels to cool down as needed.
• Check on vulnerable family, friends, and neighbors often.

Know Your Palo Alto Cooling Centers

Visit Palo Alto libraries which serve as Cooling Centers during normal business hours to support community health. Find a full list of Palo Alto libraries below.

• Children's Library: Located at 1278 Harriet St. Palo Alto CA 94301. Open Tuesday - Thursday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• College Terrace Library: Located at 2300 Wellesley St. Palo Alto CA 94306. Open Tuesday - Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Downtown Library: Located at 270 Forest Ave. Palo Alto CA 94301. Open Tuesday - Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Mitchell Park Library: Located at 3700 Middlefield Rd Palo Alto CA 94303. Open Monday - Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Rinconada Library: Located at 1213 Newell Rd. Palo Alto CA 94303. Open Friday - Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursday from noon to 8 p.m.

Additional Safety Resources