With temperatures expected to hit 110 degrees by Sunday, the county health officer has issued a heat advisory for portions of San Bernardino county. Residents are urged to stay cool by staying in air conditioned buildings. There are several cooling centers in the Morongo Basin. Cooling centers are the Yucca Valley town offices normal business hours. The Yucca Valley Community Center is open five days a week during the hottest part of the day. The Hi-Desert Nature Museum is open Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In Twentynine Palms, the Senior Center on Adobe Road is a cooling center from 9 to 5 Monday through Friday. If the heat index reaches 115 degrees, the building will open evenings and weekends. In Joshua Tree, the Hi-Desert Medical Center cafeteria is available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water. If you leave your pets outside, make sure they have access to shade, and cool water. Better yet, bring them into an air-conditioned house with you. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency; call 911.
