Flex Alert Issued During Dangerous Heat Wave In Palm Desert

PALM DESERT, CA — Palm Desert's heatwave is here to stay through Labor Day, according to the National Weather Service. Extreme temperatures across the state have led the California- Independent System Operator, which monitors the power grid in times of crisis, to issue a Flex Alert on Wednesday.

Palm Desert and Riverside County residents were asked to voluntarily conserve power between 4 and 9 p.m. to reduce strain on the grid.

Residents were warned to prepare for possible daily Flex Alerts through the holiday weekend.

"The potential for Sunday and Monday being the hottest is still there, especially over the coasts and valleys," according to the NWS. "Valley temperatures will approach all-time records." The high-pressure system is not expected to weaken until next Tuesday.

Some valley areas will likely still have extreme heat into next week.

The extreme heat and low humidity also create elevated fire weather conditions, NWS forecasters said.

According to AccuWeather.com, Palm Desert temperatures for the next seven to nine days will remain oppressively hot:

• Wednesday: 116
• Thursday: 112
• Friday: 111
• Saturday: 112
• Sunday: 113
• Monday: 114
• Tuesday: 115

"The abnormally long-duration heat wave remains on target. Excessive heat warnings will go into effect on Wednesday for all areas inland of the beaches, and last through Monday," the National Weather Service said.

An excessive heat warning has been issued until 8 p.m. Monday with dangerously hot conditions in the forecast for Riverside County, with high temperatures expected to range between 105 and 112 degrees. This heat warning is in effect for the Riverside County valleys and Inland Empire.
The holiday weekend will not bring any relief for residents choosing to stay at home.

"Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors," the NWS urged. "Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances."

All should be aware of the signs of heat stroke and to take precautions, especially those who work outside.

"Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside," according to the NWS. "When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location."

Overnight lows will not offer much relief either, staying in the 70s and even in the low 80s in some of the hotter areas.

How To Prepare For A Flex Alert:

Flex Alerts, possible through Tuesday, would take place from 4 and 9 p.m.

During that time, set your thermostat to 78 degrees, avoid using major appliances and turn off unnecessary lights, officials advise.

Before 4 p.m., California-ISO recommends residents take the following action:

• Pre-cool your home by setting your thermostat to as low as 72 degrees.
• Use major appliances before 4 p.m., including the washer, dryer, and oven.
• Adjust blinds and drapes to cover windows.

After 4 p.m., California-ISO recommends that residents:

• Raise the thermostat to 78 degrees or higher, if health permits.
• Avoid using any major appliances.
• Turn off all unnecessary lights.

Eliott Mainzer, President and CEO of California-ISO, discussed the need for Flex Alerts in a recent news conference.

“Flex Alerts have made a difference in the st,” Mainzer said. “With extreme heat forecast, we need the public’s help to keep the power flowing without interruption.”