Central Coast braces for hot temps on first day of summer
“There’s no question that heat exhaustion or heat stroke as its sometimes called can cause death and can be a very dangerous situation,” said Dr. Arnold Leff with the Santa Cruz Public Health Department.
It’s the first official day of summer and scorching temperatures have California health officials urge people to take caution outdoors. Lots of folks tried to beat the heat at the beach and some even braved the cold ocean temperatures, while other found shade underneath the wharf. As you move further away from the ocean breeze, temperatures became even more uncomfortable downtown reaching the mid 90’s.
“It’s pretty intense at times, we’ve been trying to come out in the morning before it gets hot,” said Santa Cruz resident, Brigit Zent.
Health officials said staying hydrated is extremely important, especially with infants and the elderly who are most vulnerable to heat exhaustion.
“People don’t realize the effects of very hot temperatures on their body chemistry and the loss of fluids,” said Dr. Leff.
Some side effects to heat stroke or heat exhaustion include, dizziness, headaches, sweating, clammy skin, and nausea. Santa Cruz beach volleyball courts are known to fill up most of the day, but some of the players said they don’t know if they would make it in the sun.
“This isn’t Arizona right it’s not suppose to be this hot it’s Santa Cruz. I’m suppose to be playing with my friends from 11:30 on but if it’s too hot and I’m feeling not well, I’ll have to call it,” said Margaret Anderson, Santa Cruz resident.
There are things you can do to protect yourself, stay indoors, or in the shade. Make sure to wear a hat. Drink about two liters of water if being active and make sure to put sunscreen on.
“Everybody stay cool, it’s going to get hot, its going to get hotter,” said Zent.
PREVIOUS STORY: Hot temperatures are expected across the state this week, including inland and coastal areas in Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties.
Monday marks the first official day of summer and health departments are recommending people take extra steps to stay cool.
KION’s Brandon Castillo will have more on the risks of getting dehydrated and how to prevent a trip to the hospital at 5 & 6.
