10/01/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/01/2024 13:11
Published on October 01, 2024
UPDATED OCT. 1: The National Weather Service upgraded the heat advisory to an excessive heat warning for Tuesday, October 1 through 11 p.m. Wednesday, October 2 with Major Heat Risk. Temperatures in Palo Alto may reach 100 degrees on Tuesday and Wednesday. Mountain areas, including Santa Cruz Mountains are into the "Extreme" condition for the duration of this warning. The heat is expected to continue the rest of the week and into the weekend.
Due to dry conditions, there is an increased fire weather danger for inland areas and 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.
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:
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.
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.
Hot weather can impact air quality. Check for Bay Area Air Quality Management District alerts here.
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:
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.