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Public Safety

San Diego Swelters As Heat Wave Strengthens

Inland areas of San Diego County, including Ramona and Alpine, are expected to reach the 100-degree mark by lunchtime Thursday as a heatwave intensifies and bears down on the region.

Coastal communities are expected to peak near 90 degrees, and mountain regions will soar to the mid-90s, with a chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Desert temperatures will hover near 110.

How To Stay Safe During A Heat Wave

Avoid strenuous outdoor activity

Drink plenty of water

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing

Wear a hat to shield yourself from the sun

Use sunscreen to reduce possible sunburn

Stay in air conditioning and shade if possible

Never leave children or pets in enclosed vehicles, even briefly

Source: National Weather Service

The soaring temperatures -- the result of a strong ridge of high pressure anchored over the county -- are expected to stay put through Friday, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

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A cooling trend will begin on Saturday with temperatures dropping approximately 10 degrees, according to NWS.

NWS is advising people to drink plenty of fluids and avoid strenuous outdoor activity.

Schools throughout the county have “hot weather” plans in place including changes to daily schedules and limited physical education activities. San Diego Unified School District alternates locations for instruction.

"Students in non-air-conditioned portable facilities may be merged with other classes in air-conditioned buildings, such as media centers, cafeterias or auditoriums," stated school officials.

San Diego County has designated 100 Cool Zones sites to provide air-conditioned settings and relief when temperatures are hot.

KPBS has created a public safety coverage policy to guide decisions on what stories we prioritize, as well as whose narratives we need to include to tell complete stories that best serve our audiences. This policy was shaped through months of training with the Poynter Institute and feedback from the community. You can read the full policy here.