National Weather Service Calls Excessive Heat Watch As Pasadena Girds For Week long Heatwave

The National Weather Service has declared an excessive heat watch during which “dangerously hot conditions” could impact Pasadena from Tuesday morning through Friday evening. 

Daytime temperatures could go as high as 102 degrees during this period, the NWS said early Sunday. 

“A significant heat wave will bring temperatures to near record levels starting Tuesday and continuing through the end of the week,” the NWS said. “The extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.” 

With these conditions, the NWS warned young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances, because car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in minutes.

City spokesperson Lisa Derderian said the city is not planning to open any cooling centers at this point.

“But we encourage the public to escape the heat at one of our open city facilities,” she said. 

For information on facility locations and hours, call the Citizen Service Center at (626) 744-7311. 

The pools at Robinson and Villa Parks, as well as the pools at Blair and Pasadena High School will open for swim lessons, adult water aerobics and lap swimming.  All require pre-registration.  For more information please call 744-7330 or click here.

Derderian added the Pasadena Fire Department will determine on Monday additional staffing as it anticipates extra patrolling of the foothills and other fire prone areas.

“The public is encouraged to call 911 if they see or smell smoke; don’t assume someone else is making that call,” Derderian added. 

Asked for additional tips on how residents should act during the heatwave, Derderian advised people to exercise early, stay hydrated and drink water and electrolytes before you’re thirsty.  

“Check on the elderly and young kids who don’t have a good perspiration mechanism in place; they may not look like they’re overheating but heat-related illness can turn fatal quickly,” Derderian said. 

“Tips like ice packs behind the knees or neck help cool people off. Don’t walk or run with dogs because their paws can easily burn and they can overheat in their fur. Seek medical help if in doubt because people typically deny symptoms and many conditions can be addressed early on to avoid more serious health-related issues,” she said.

The NWS said the heat will top out from 96 to 102 degrees Tuesday through Friday, with night temperatures around 69. By Saturday, daytime highs will be near 94.