Spring break heatwave could bring highs in the 100s to SLO County
Heat in the 100s before Easter?
That’s exactly what could happen this week as a forecast for unseasonably hot temperatures brings an early taste of summer to San Luis Obispo County.
If you’re a spring-breaker headed to beach towns such as Pismo Beach, Morro Bay and Cambria, expect the mercury to rise up to 92 degrees sometime between Wednesday and Friday.
And it will be even hotter inland.
Areas like San Luis Obispo, Nipomo, Lake Nacimiento and Santa Maria may see temperatures soar into the low 100s — possibly as high as 103 — during that same period, according to the National Weather Service.
The Weather Service issued a heat advisory for the areas beginning at 11 a.m. Wednesday through 6 p.m. Friday.
The highest temperatures are predicted to hit on Thursday and Friday.
“Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors,” the Weather Service wrote in its advisory. “Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.”
Temperatures in the 90s in San Luis Obispo at this time of year are unusual, according to historical data compiled by the Weather Service. Typically, the region experiences temperatures in the high 60s.
However, in 1989, a similarly timed heatwave hit the region and sent the mercury soaring to 98 degrees on April 6, 100 degrees on the 7th and 104 degrees on the 8th. Whether any high temperature records will be set this year remains to be seen.
Regardless, the Weather Service warns that it may be possible to experience heat exhaustion or heat stroke during the high temperatures expected this week.
“To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments,” the Weather Service wrote in its heat advisory. “Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.”
