Californians Issued July 4 Fireworks Warning

Californians have been told to "be extra careful" with fireworks during the July 4 celebrations because of the hot weather.

The National Weather Service in Los Angeles (NWS) said there is an "extreme risk" of high temperatures this week. The heat index is predicted to peak between Thursday and Sunday, with deserts hitting 102-116 degrees Fahrenheit, mountains 110-112 degrees, valleys 98-108 degrees and the coastal plain 80-94 degrees.

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Forecasters have told folks to "be extra careful with any potential fire ignition sources, including 4th of July fireworks." They have also said to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during the hottest times of the day, check on elderly neighbors and make sure not to leave pets in vehicles.

An excessive heat warning covers a portion of southwest California from 11 a.m. PDT on Tuesday to 5 a.m. on Monday.

The warning includes Figueroa Mountain, Paso Robles, San Miguel, Llano, Shandon, Lockwood Valley, Tejon Pass, Creston, Rose Valley, Santa Margarita Lake, Lake Palmdale, New Cuyama, Lake Nacimiento, Atascadero, Matilija, Ozena, San Rafael Mountain, Caliente Range, La Panza Range, Gorman, Pearblossom, Lake Los Angeles, Templeton, Pyramid Lake, Lancaster, Mount Pinos, Palmdale, Carrizo Plain, Elizabeth Lake, Acton, Topatopa Mountains, Mill Creek, Valyermo, Warm Springs and Big Pine Mountain.

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Starting at the same time on Tuesday, another warning covers Sacramento Valley, northern San Joaquin Valley, Carquinez Strait and Delta and the surrounding foothills until 8 p.m. PDT on Saturday.

Coachella Valley, San Diego County Deserts and the San Gorgonio Pass Near Banning are all already under warning, until 11 p.m. PDT on Monday, with Friday and Saturday expected to be the hottest days.

Warnings cover multiple other parts of the state, including Trinity County, Apple and Lucerne Valleys Lake County, Southeastern Mendocino Interior, Northern Humboldt Interior and Northern Mendocino Interior.

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People have been warned that there will be "limited overnight relief" and that "heat-related illnesses [could] increase significantly."

San Francisco's Fourth of July fireworks show
San Francisco's Fourth of July fireworks show through the Golden Gate Bridge in 2013. The National Weather Service has told folks to be careful about using fireworks in the excessive heat. AP

The NWS said: "An Excessive Heat Warning means that a period of very hot temperatures, even by local standards, will occur. Actions should be taken to lessen the impact of the extreme heat.

"Stay indoors and seek air-conditioned buildings. Drink water, more than usual, and avoid dehydrating alcoholic, sugary, or caffeinated drinks. Dress for the heat - lightweight and light-colored clothing.

"Eat small meals and eat more often. Monitor those with a higher vulnerability to heat, including small children. Check in on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly. If engaging in outdoor activity, take longer and more frequent breaks and avoid the hottest parts of the day. Never leave kids or pets unattended in cars."

"Public cooling shelters are available in some areas. Consult county officials for more details, which may include guidance for proper social distancing measures."

It went on to remind people of the signs of heat-related illness: Thirst, muscle cramps, cool, moist, pale skin, headache, dizziness, weakness and exhaustion.

Heat stroke, which is serious, can include vomiting, confusion, throbbing headache, decreased alertness or loss of consciousness, high body temperature (above 105 degrees Fahrenheit), hot, dry skin, weak pulse, rapid, shallow breathing and seizures.

If you think you or someone you know has heat stroke, it should be treated as an emergency and you should call 911.

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