Dangerous Heat, Unhealthy Air Forecast In Inland Empire: Officials

Palm Desert CA

07 June, 2022

7:51 PM

Description

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — Triple-digit heat will bake much of the Inland Empire later this week, with forecasters warning of potentially dangerous highs of up to 115 degrees in the Coachella Valley and the San Gorgonio Pass near Banning. An excessive heat warning will be in effect in those areas from 10 a.m. Thursday to 8 p.m. Sunday, according to the National Weather Service. "Extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities," according to the NWS. The rest of Riverside County is under a heat advisory from 10 a.m. Thursday until 8 p.m. Saturday, the NWS reported. Highs are forecast to hover around 90 in Temecula, but the NWS reported the rest of Southwest Riverside County can expect temperatures in the mid to upper 90s. As a result of the heat wave, ground-level ozone (smog) — the predominant summertime pollutant — is likely to reach unhealthy and very unhealthy levels in parts of the Inland Empire and the Coachella Valley, according to a statement Tuesday from the South Coast Air Quality Management District. The worst air is forecast in Crestline, Big Bear, Redlands, San Bernardino, and nearby areas. But even areas near the Southern California coast may reach unhealthy levels, according to the agency. "Unusually poor air quality is expected due to a strong high-pressure ridge located over the Desert Southwest," according to the SCAQMD statement. "The National Weather Service forecasts that temperatures will be highest Thursday through Sunday, with temperatures 10-15 degrees F above average. Elevated temperatures, which enhance ozone formation rates and increase emissions of chemicals leading to ozone formation, coupled with predicted light winds may cause unusually high and persistent levels of ozone pollution. "Ozone air pollution can cause respiratory health problems, including trouble breathing, asthma attacks, and lung damage," the SCAQMD statement continued. "Research also indicates that ozone exposure can increase the risk of premature death. Children, older adults, and people with asthma or COPD may be more sensitive to the health effects of ozone." Due to the poor air quality, the SCAQMD is advising residents to reduce "prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion" and schedule outdoor activities in the morning when ozone is lower. As is usual during heat waves, the NWS is urging residents to drink plenty of fluids, seek out air-conditioned spaces and check on vulnerable relatives and neighbors. According to meteorologists, clear skies and light winds will accompany the soaring mercury, with little relief until the start of next week, when a trough of low pressure is slated to slide into the region.