Health Risks of Southern California’s Extreme Heat and Humidity

Officials are raising concerns about the health impacts of extreme heat and oppressive humidity in Southern California this week. Heat-related illnesses remain a significant issue in California amid climate change and rising temperatures, although public awareness is still growing. A 2021 investigation by the Times reported 3,900 heat-related deaths across California over ten years, revealing public agencies’ challenges in assisting those in need.

According to the Los Angeles County health department, emergency visits for heat-related illnesses have increased during the summer heat wave. This week’s high humidity makes temperatures feel hotter. Climate scientist Daniel Swain calls this absolute humidity exceptionally high for the region.

Experts explain that humidity interferes with the body’s natural cooling system, preventing sweat from evaporating and causing increased body temperature. Conversely, lower humidity decreases the likelihood of heat-related illnesses.

Understanding Heat Stress

Dr. David Eisenman from the David Geffen School of Medicine and Fielding UCLA School of Public Health describes ‘heat stress’ as the total heat a body must manage to maintain a stable core temperature. The body ideally maintains an internal temperature of about 98.6 degrees. This heat can originate from activities or external weather. When outside conditions are hot and humid, the body works harder to control temperature. Eisenman suggests ‘skin wetting,’ where one keeps the skin damp using methods like misting water on the face, neck, and forearms every 5-10 minutes. Another method involves soaking clothes in cold water or applying chilled towels to the body.

Guidance from Los Angeles Department of Public Health

Basic Tips for Dealing with Heat and Humidity:

• Stay hydrated continuously by drinking water, even if you aren’t thirsty.
• When outdoors, plan activities to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, use sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher), and protect yourself with a hat or umbrella.
• Keep living spaces cool. If home temperatures rise and cooling is difficult, visit an air-conditioned place or cooling center.
• Never leave children or pets in vehicles, which heat rapidly even with open windows. Call 911 if you observe a child or pet alone in a vehicle.
• Check on individuals at higher risk for heat-related illnesses, such as the elderly, pregnant women, children, people with chronic illnesses, those living alone, pets, outdoor workers, athletes, and individuals without air conditioning.
• Immediately call 911 for symptoms like confusion, fainting, hot skin, high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, headache, dizziness, or nausea.

If lacking air conditioning, take cool showers, use the stove and oven sparingly, or visit locations with air conditioning like libraries or shopping malls. Call 211 for help finding cool spaces.

Recognizing Heat-Related Illnesses

Heat Exhaustion

Symptoms: A body temperature over 104 degrees, lethargy, dizziness, communication difficulties, headache, reduced cognitive function, fainting, and excessive sweating.

Treatment: Follow instructions for heat syncope and remove excess clothing. Wet a towel and wrap it around the body. Call 911.

Heatstroke

Symptoms: Body temperature over 104 degrees, unconsciousness, potentially dry skin, and a lack of sweat due to a compromised cooling system.

Treatment: Move to a cool location and call 911 immediately.