San Diego, CA — A wildfire burning in central California is bringing hazy skies to San Diego, while residents are bracing for extreme heat later this week. Officials have issued an Extreme Heat Warning for parts of San Diego County, Imperial County, and surrounding regions as temperatures are forecasted to soar well beyond seasonal norms.
Hazy Skies from the Gifford Fire
Over the weekend, satellite and radar data showed smoke drifting south from the Gifford Fire, which is currently burning in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the smoke mixed with cirrus cloud cover moving east from the Pacific, creating a layer of haze across San Diego County on Sunday.
Despite the visual impact, AirNow.gov reported that most of San Diego County maintained normal to moderate air quality levels. However, individuals who are sensitive to air pollution, including those with respiratory conditions, are advised to limit outdoor activity.
“While the air quality is acceptable for most, people with respiratory issues or sensitivities should reduce time spent outside,” said an NWS spokesperson.
Extreme Heat Warning Issued for Midweek
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning effective from 10 a.m. Wednesday through 8 p.m. Friday for parts of Southwest Arizona and Southeast and Southern California, including inland areas of San Diego and Imperial counties.
A high-pressure system is expected to strengthen midweek, raising temperatures 5 to 10 degrees above normal, particularly in inland valleys and desert regions.
Forecast Highlights:
- Wednesday and Thursday will be the hottest days of the week.
- Daytime highs in affected areas could reach 106 to 118 degrees.
- Ramona has a 65% chance of seeing temperatures exceed 100°F on Thursday, according to the NWS forecast.
Read Also: Central NY Added to Air Quality Alert as Canadian Wildfire Smoke Triggers Statewide Health Concerns
Heat Safety Measures and Public Warnings
The National Weather Service strongly advises residents in impacted areas to take precautionary steps to avoid heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The following guidelines were issued:
- Stay indoors during peak heat hours (usually 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.).
- Drink plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and avoid strenuous activity.
- Be on the lookout for symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, rapid pulse, and headache—signs of heat-related stress.
“Check in on elderly neighbors, children, and pets, and never leave anyone in a parked car,” the agency emphasized.
Cooling Centers Open Across San Diego County
To help residents cope with the dangerous heat, public cooling centers have been activated across San Diego County. These centers provide air-conditioned relief and are free to access for anyone in need.
Local governments and emergency management agencies have also ramped up efforts to ensure the public is informed. Residents can find the nearest cooling center locations by visiting the county’s emergency services website or calling 211 San Diego.
Ongoing Fire Risk and Air Quality Concerns
As temperatures rise and fire danger increases, public safety officials are warning that conditions may worsen through the week. The smoke from the Gifford Fire may continue to affect air visibility and air quality, particularly if winds shift inland.
Cal Fire and local emergency crews remain on alert, and residents are urged to stay informed via official channels for both air quality updates and fire warnings.
Are you prepared for this week’s heat wave? Let us know how you’re staying cool or helping your community stay safe in the comments below.
