Summertime and it’s hot in Sacramento…
Temperatures rise during the summer months in Sacramento. Here are some simple tips to survive the summer and still enjoy the hot weather. The Office of Emergency Services uses the National Weather Service HeatRisk Prototype tool to assist in decision-making. An Extreme Heat Watch or Warning will be tied to the HeatRisk Red or Magenta output.
The county guidance for conditions of extreme heat is available for download:
2022 Extreme Heat Emergency Hazard Annex.
Official Weather Reporting Links
Sacramento Executive Airport weather station is the official NWS Sacramento climate reporting station as the equipment is maintained, calibrated and owned by the NWS.
NWS HeatRisk Prototype
NWS HeatRisk Prototype identifying potential heat risks in the seven day forecast.
Experimental Smoke Forecast
Air Quality Management District Resources
- Wildfire Smoke Information. Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District has developed recommended guidance in conjunction with Sacramento County Public Health when smoke conditions become severe in Sacramento County due to regional wildfires.
Actions During Extreme Heat
Ensure the safety of your loved ones and check on family members, friends, and neighbors during heat waves.
Drink lots of fluids - During the hot weather you’re more vulnerable to dehydration.
- Increase your intake of nonalcoholic fluids, regardless of your activity level and whether or not you are thirsty.
- Limit drinking fluids containing alcohol and caffeine.
- If you are on a fluid-restricted diet, consult your doctor before increasing the amount of fluid intake.
Eat light meals regularly, and avoid hot and heavy foods.
Wear sunscreen and dress appropriately.
- Apply sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher
- Wear light-colored, lightweight, loose-fitting attire
- Use a wide-brimmed hat to protect the face and head.
Keep cool
- Take cool showers or baths
- Limit exposure to the sun by staying indoors as much as possible, especially during the hottest hours of the day (3 p.m. – 6 p.m.)
- If you don’t have air conditioning at home, consider a trip to the mall, theaters, public libraries, or other public buildings.
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In serious heat emergencies, the Cities and County will open ‘cooling centers'.
Keep your pets cool
- Give your pets plenty of fresh, clean water.
- Don't exercise your pets in high temperatures or when the pavement is hot. If you cannot hold the back of your hand to the ground for more than 3 seconds, it is too hot for your pet's feet.
- Make sure they have a shady place to get out of the sun or bring them indoors. Animals do not sweat to release excess heat and can become heat exhausted much quicker than humans.
Beware of hot cars -- Never leave a person or pet in a parked vehicle, even for a short time. On a mild 80-degree day, the temperature inside a car can reach 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes.
Avoid activity in the hottest hours of the day
Additional Resources
