The Morongo Basin is currently experiencing its hottest days so far, with temps in the triple digits. The National Weather service has issued an excessive heat watch for temperatures ranging from 110 today to 117 this weekend. Several buildings have been designated as cooling centers where you can get out of the heat. In Yucca Valley, town offices are open during normal business hours with lobby areas to accommodate those wishing to get out of the heat. The Yucca Valley Community Center is open five days a week during the hottest part of the day. The Hi-Desert Nature Museum open Thursday thru Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In Twentynine Palms, the city has designated the Senior Center on Adobe Road as a cooling center, from 9 to 5 Monday through Friday. If the heat index reaches 115 degrees, the building will be open later, during the evenings and on weekends. The Twentynine Palms library is also open. In Joshua Tree the Hi-Desert Medical Center cafeteria is available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for heat relief. Residents are being reminded to take care of indoor and outdoor pets by making sure they have plenty of water and a cool, shady place to rest. Never leave a pet unattended in vehicles, as temperatures inside the vehicle quickly reach deadly levels.
Greatest impacts are to children, pets, the elderly, homeless, and people with chronic ailments are the most susceptible to heat-related illness. Heat exhaustion, cramps or in extreme cases, heat stroke can result from prolonged exposure to these conditions. Friends, relatives, and neighbors should check on people who may be at risk.
