Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Excessive Heat Warning Issued

The California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (OES) and the National Weather Service have updated the "Heat Advisory" criteria to " An Excessive Heat Warning" until Friday, July 9th, 2008 for Sonoma County (and the greater Bay Area) due to the hot weather we are experiencing.

Per National Weather "an Excessive Heat Warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. This excessive heat warning is being issued utilizing a new heat health warning system. It is targeted at the elderly or infirmed, who might be much more sensitive to heat and thus at greater risk. Individuals who fall into this category should be especially careful by drinking plenty of water, reducing outdoor exposure, staying out of the sun, seeking a cooler location for the day if no air conditioning is available in the living quarters, and asking a friend or relative to check on you frequently."

The following temperatures are forecast for Sonoma County during this heat event:

Wed (7/9) - Areas of smoke. Sunny and hot, with a high near 101. Calm wind becoming west southwest between 6 and 9 mph. Evening temp of 65.

Thurs (7/10) - Areas of smoke. Sunny and hot, with a high near 100. Calm wind becoming west southwest between 6 and 9 mph. Evening temp of 62.

Friday (7/11) - Mostly sunny, with a high near 90. South southwest wind between 3 and 11 mph. Evening temp of 52.

Sat/Sun - Sunny, with a high near 84.

The coast should see temperatures in the 70s - 80s.

A Smoke Advisory still remains in place for those with heart or lung disease (see County Home page for more info or http://www.sonoma-county.org/health/ph/news/20080624smoke.htm).

Remember to stay hydrated and cool, and do not leave small children or animals in vehicles. For more heat emergency tips go to Sonoma County's Public Health Preparedness website at: http://www.sonoma-county.org/health/ph/phpreparedness/heat/

The California Independent System Operator requests that people be sure to conserve energy - so we don't overload the system.

The California Independent System Operator (CAISO) is forecasting very high demands throughout the state during this entire week. To help alleviate the stress on the system, PG&E has already activated the Critical Peak Pricing (CPP) Program, which is part of PG&E's demand response portfolio. In addition, PG&E requests that all customers voluntarily reduce any additional usage possible from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM to help prevent the need for the CAISO to declare an emergency. PG&E thanks you in advance for your efforts to reduce load and help maintain electrical supply reliability.