Santa Barbara County issues health alert for extreme heat

The Santa Barbara County Health Department has issued a health alert following an extreme heat warning from the National Weather Service. The warning covers various areas of Santa Barbara County, including south coast communities, the interior wilderness, and the Cuyama Valley.

Forecasts indicate hot and dry weather with elevated fire conditions. Temperatures are expected to reach up to 85 degrees at the coast and 100 degrees in the mountains and Cuyama Valley. A heat advisory is also in effect for certain periods, with temperatures potentially reaching 103 degrees.

Health officials are urging residents to take precautions to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Recommended safety measures include staying hydrated with non-alcoholic beverages, wearing lightweight clothing, limiting outdoor activity to cooler hours, and seeking air-conditioned environments. Officials noted that electric fans may not prevent heat-related illness when temperatures exceed the high 90s.