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Excessive heat warning issued for San Diego County deserts

An excessive heat warning has been issued for the San Diego County deserts with temperatures expected to reach 110 Monday, according to the National Weather Service.

The excessive heat warning is in effect until 11 p.m. Tuesday.

It comes amidst another stretch of high temperatures across the San Diego region.

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The National Weather Service's Alex Tardy said this heat wave is milder than the last one, which baked much of the Western United States and strained the power grid.

“This current heat wave, today, tomorrow, Wednesday – we’re looking at temperatures not as extreme, but still hot,” Tardy said. “We’re also looking at nighttime temperatures not as warm, but still much warmer than usual.”

Many San Diegans are finding ways to stay cool during the heatwave. That includes swimming at public pools, but a reduction in hours is causing some frustration for the general public.

The city of San Diego’s Tim Graham told KPBS that the nationwide shortage in carbon dioxide and some vandalism incidents have resulted in additional pool closures. In a written statement he said:

“We are trying to find a better way of notifying the public on temporary closures and have usually just posted at the particular facility for those issues.”

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A heat advisory is in effect for the San Diego County coastal areas and valleys from 10 a.m. today until 8 p.m. Wednesday.

Oceanside, Vista, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Chula Vista, National City and San Diego are under the heat advisory.

Temperatures are expected to reach 90 in those areas.

Escondido, El Cajon, San Marcos, La Mesa, Santee and Poway are also under a heat advisory.

Temperatures of up to 104 are expected in those areas.

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Tardy said the county-wide heat is drying up vegetation and increasing wildfire risk.

“‘Are we in severe fire weather conditions?’ No, not yet because of that rain we had earlier this month but this is going to erase a lot of that benefit,” he told KPBS. “So when we go into October and we do start actually developing Santa Ana winds, the fuels are going to be receptive to burn.”

Extreme heat can increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those working on participating in outdoor activities.

The NWS recommends drinking plenty of fluids, staying in air- conditioned rooms, staying out of the sun and checking on relatives and neighbors.

The county is also offering some relief at Cool Zones across the region. Residents can call 211 to request information and even schedule a free ride to a Cool Zone.