Central Coast Heat Wave: Protect Yourself, Pets, and Property with These Essential Tips

The Central Coast is experiencing the effects of a regional heat dome, which is causing unusually high temperatures in inland areas of Monterey, San Benito, and San Luis Obispo counties. While coastal regions in Santa Cruz and Monterey counties are expected to stay relatively cool, inland temperatures are soaring into the 90s and even surpassing 100°F in some locations.

In addition to the extreme heat, weather officials are closely monitoring the risk of wildfires. Dry vegetation, gusty winds, and the possibility of lightning from monsoonal moisture all contribute to elevated fire danger in the region.

Certain groups are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat, including older adults, young children, outdoor workers, people with chronic health conditions, and anyone without reliable access to air conditioning.

Older adults are especially at risk, as heat-related illnesses can develop quickly, particularly if dehydration or certain medications impact the body's ability to regulate temperature. Read for more tips on caring for loved ones during heat waves.

How to Stay Safe During Extreme Heat

Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty. Whenever possible, spend time in air-conditioned spaces. If your home becomes too hot, consider visiting a local cooling center, library, or community center. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, and try to avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Remember to check in on older neighbors, family members, and friends who might need extra assistance.

Recognizing Heat-Related Illness

It’s important to recognize the warning signs of heat-related illness. Call 911 immediately if someone experiences confusion or altered mental status, a body temperature of 103°F or higher, hot and red skin, fainting, severe headache, or nausea and vomiting.

Reducing Wildfire Risk

Hot, dry conditions mean wildfires can spread rapidly. To reduce the risk, avoid outdoor burning and recreational fires where restrictions are in place. Always extinguish cigarettes properly and dispose of them in fire-safe containers. Do not park vehicles on dry grass, as hot engines can ignite vegetation. Be especially careful when using outdoor equipment that may create sparks, and immediately report any smoke or fire by calling 911.

Keeping Pets Safe in the Heat

Pets are also at risk when temperatures soar.

Ensure they always have access to fresh water and shade, and walk dogs in the early morning or evening when outdoor surfaces are cooler. Avoid walking pets on hot pavement, as it can burn their paws, and never leave them in parked vehicles, even for a short time. Whenever possible, bring outdoor pets indoors during periods of extreme heat.

What to Do if the Power Goes Out

Losing power during a heat wave can become dangerous quickly, so it’s important to take precautions.

If you experience a power outage during extreme heat, move to the coolest part of your home and close blinds or curtains to keep out sunlight. Continue to drink water to stay hydrated, and use battery-powered fans if you have them.

If your home becomes too hot or unsafe, visit a cooling center, library, mall, or community center.

Remember to check on neighbors and family members who might need help. Keep your phone charged and monitor local emergency alerts for updates.

Finding Cooling Centers

Cooling center locations and hours may change depending on local conditions. Always confirm a cooling center’s status and operating hours before you go.

Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County officials and Santa Cruz Public Libraries have designated library branches as cooling sites during periods of extreme heat, and branches will be open during their regular operating hours.

• Downtown Santa Cruz Library: 224 Church Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

• Capitola Library: 2005 Wharf Road, Capitola, CA 95010

• Aptos Library: 7695 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003

• Boulder Creek Library: 13390 West Park Avenue, Boulder Creek, CA 95006

• Branciforte Library: 230 Gault Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

• Garfield Park Library: 705 Woodrow Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

• Felton Library: 6121 Gushee Street, Felton, CA 95018

• La Selva Beach Library: 316 Estrella Avenue, La Selva Beach, CA 95076

• Live Oak Library: 2380 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

• Scotts Valley Library: 251 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley, CA 95066

• Freedom Branch Library: 2021 Freedom Boulevard, Watsonville, CA 95076

Monterey County

The County of Monterey frequently activates the following locations during heat advisories:

• King City Free Library, 402 Broadway St., King City

• San Ardo Free Library, 62350 College St., San Ardo

• San Lucas Free Library, 54692 Teresa St., San Lucas

• Soledad Community Center, 560 Walker Dr., Soledad

• Greenfield Civic Center, 599 El Camino Real, Greenfield

San Benito County

When extreme heat warrants activation, the county has used:

• San Benito County Free Library, 470 Fifth St., Hollister

• San Juan Bautista Library, 801 Second St., San Juan Bautista

• Veterans Memorial Building, 649 San Benito St., Hollister

San Luis Obispo County

Cooling centers are activated as needed, and information is distributed through County Emergency Services and 211:

• CAPSLO 40 Prado Homeless Services Center: 40 Prado Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

• ECHO Shelter: 6370 Atascadero Avenue, Atascadero, CA 93422

• ECHO Shelter: 1134 Black Oak Drive, Paso Robles, CA 93446

Need Help Finding Resources?

Residents should verify operating hours and cooling-center activation status before visiting, as many cooling centers open only during National Weather Service heat advisories or excessive heat warnings. County emergency management offices, local libraries, and 211 services provide the most current information.

Emergency: 911

Community Resources & Cooling Centers: 211

California Aging & Adult Information Line: 800-510-2020

A simple phone call, a ride to a cooling center, or a reminder to stay hydrated can make a big difference during periods of extreme heat. Let’s continue to look out for one another and stay safe.