High Heat Continues in San Diego County Deserts, Slightly Cooler Elsewhere

It will be at or near triple digits in the San Diego deserts this weekend with temperatures elsewhere near to slightly below average into the middle of next week, the National Weather Service said Saturday.

There’s a chance of thunderstorms in the mountains Saturday and Sunday and continuing into Monday, forecasters said.

Highs in the deserts Saturday will range from 110 to 114 with wind gusts of up to 45 mph and from 91 to 100 in the mountains with wind gusts of up to 35 mph. There is a 20% chance of measurable precipitation in both areas.

Temperatures will range from 81 to 86 in the western valleys and 92 to 97 near the foothills.

It will be partly cloudy with patchy fog during the morning in coastal areas with highs from 73 to 76 near the coast and 79 to 83 inland with wind gusts up to 25 mph.

In high-heat areas, officials advised people to “drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors.”

Heat warnings also apply to furry companions as well. San Diego County officials also advised residents to keep their pets indoors, so long as the temperature is lower inside. People should also:

— exercise animals in early morning or evening to avoid prolonged exposure to the heat, and also skip strenuous runs or hikes;

— keep pets’ water supply in a tip-proof container, and make sure the dish always topped off and stays cool (as pets won’t drink water that is too hot);

— if possible, install a misting system to keep outdoor areas cooler;

— be sure animals, if they are outside, are constantly in a shaded area;

— avoid taking pets on car trips without air-conditioning unless necessary, as a vehicle can quickly heat up (on an 85-degree day, a car can reach 102 degrees in 10 minutes, even with the windows down);

— avoid walking dogs on hot pavement; and

— allow dogs to use a child’s wading pool.

–City News Service