Tips for staying cool and safe during the heatwave with unhealthy air quality

The Coachella Valley is in its second heatwave of the year. Many of the places and activities people are used to doing during triple-digit temperatures still remain closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Cooling centers are also not open during this time as they typically open June 1.

Meteorologist Haley Clawson said, "We’re currently experiencing the second heatwave of the year and it’s been the hottest day of the year so far today. Unfortunately, we are not going to be getting any relief until early next week."

Places like malls, movie theaters, and public libraries remain closed. Public pools have reduced capacities. Clawson said, "An average high for this time of year would be in the low 90s. Yet here we are experiencing afternoon highs 15-20 degrees above normal."

Cooling centers generally open June 1st, in a statement, Riverside County Public Health wrote, "These sites are not prepared for an earlier opening, in part, because of the current response to coronavirus and the existing restrictions on public gatherings and social distancing requirements." They also added, "We are working with the Office on Aging to connect seniors with services during this heatwave," said Kim Saruwatari, director of Public Health for Riverside County. “Community Connect is a one-stop-shop. By dialing 2-1-1 from any phone in Riverside County, seniors can be connected with a number of services that are available."

South Coast Air Quality Management District has also issued an Ozone Advisory through Friday afternoon. Clawson stated, "When you have a lot of heat, plus sunlight, it can actually speed up the process, creating a lot of ozone down here at the ground level." Air quality for the Coachella Valley will remain Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. These groups include children, elderly, and those with respiratory issues.

Here are some tips to stay safe and cool in the heat while inside:

• Shut the blinds and curtains to keep the light outside from getting in
• Turn on the AC (Your AC won't work as hard if you keep the blinds closed and close off doors to rooms you're not spending a lot of time in.)
• Use ceiling fans
• Take a cool bath or shower
• Avoid using the oven, use the outdoor barbecue instead
• Freeze your sheets and pajamas
• Apply a cool rag to your pulse points
• Stay hydrated

Here are some tips to stay safe if you are outdoors:

• Take frequent breaks in the shade
• Avoid peak heat hours of the day by being outside in the early morning and later evening hours
• Find areas in the shade
• Wear light-colored and loose fitted clothing
• Wear a hat for some shade
• Stay hydrated