The National Weather Service has extended a heat advisory for all of Santa Clara County, which includes Morgan Hill, until 9 p.m. June 22, according to an announcement from the county.
According to the NWS, this week is expected to bring an extended period of well above normal temperatures and record heat to large portions of the state. Peak heat is expected Monday through Thursday, and overnight minimum temperatures will be warm, according to the press release.
Tuesday’s forecast shows upper 80s to mid 90s; Wednesday’s has high 90s; Thursday’s high 90s to 101; and Friday through Sunday highs near 90, according to the NWS.
Vulnerable populations including young children, the elderly, those with chronic diseases or disabilities, pregnant women and people who are socially isolated are at substantial risk, according to the announcement. In addition, pets, crops and livestock may demand extra care through the hot and dry weather. Pets require shade and extra water and should never be left in a closed, parked car.
In response to the high temperatures, the City of Morgan Hill has designated several facilities as cooling centers for local residents.
The Centennial Recreation Center, the Centennial Recreation Senior Center and the Community and Cultural Center are all designated cooling centers and the lobby areas are available for the public to use as a place to find relief from the heat during regular business hours, according to city staff.
The CRC, located at 171 W. Edmundson Ave, is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
The CCC, located at 17000 Monterey Road, is opened from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
During this time period, residents are advised to take these preparedness actions:
• Drink plenty of liquids. Drink water and sports drinks—even if you don’t feel thirsty;
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugar because they make you lose fluids;
• Limit physical activity. Avoid physical activity during the hottest time of the day—10 a.m. to 3 p.m.;
• Never leave people or pets in a closed, parked car;
• Stay in air-conditioned areas. Help keep cool by spending time at malls, libraries, movie theaters and community centers;
• Cool off by taking a bath or shower. Cool, plain water baths or moist towels work best;
• Do not cool children in alcohol baths;
• Wear cool clothing. Lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing can help you keep cool;
• Cotton clothes are good because they let sweat evaporate;
• Do not bundle babies. Babies do not handle heat well because their sweat glands are not fully developed. Do not put them in blankets or heavy clothing;
• Cover your head. Wear a wide-brimmed, vented hat or use an umbrella when outdoors because your head absorbs heat easily;
• Wear sunglasses and sunscreen. Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher when outdoors; and
• Rest often in shady areas. Find shady places to cool down.