Mercury hits 109 in Ramona
Summer got off to a scorching start as an intense hot spell grew even fiercer on Monday.
The torrid conditions set a number of heat records for the date, including 109 degrees in Ramona, topping the prior June 20 milestone of 106, set in 2008, the National Weather Services reported.
Other milestone highs were logged in Borrego Springs, where they mercury reached the 118-degree mark, exceeding the previous high of 116, also set in 2008; 110 degrees in Campo (105, 2008); 107 in El Cajon (94, 2007); 106 in Escondido (104, 1973); 96 on Palomar Mountain (92, 2015); and 91 in Chula Vista (85, 2008).
The swelter added to the challenges faced by firefighters laboring to extinguish a blaze that charred about 7,500 open, brushy acres in the southern reaches of the county since erupting near Potrero late Sunday morning.
High temperatures also broke records Sunday, when it was 106 degrees in Ramona and Alpine, 117 degrees in Borrego Springs, 109 degrees in Campo, 104 degrees in El Cajon, 103 degrees in Escondido, and 93 degrees on Palomar Mountain and in Chula Vista, according to the National Weather Service.
An excessive-heat warning for inland areas is set to remain in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday. Cool zones in Ramona are the library at 1275 Main St. and the community center at 434 Aqua Lane.
Temperatures are expected to lower somewhat Tuesday, when high temperatures should fall to 84 to 94 degrees in the valleys, and on Wednesday, when they likely will range from 108 to 115 degrees in the lower deserts, 99 to 107 in the upper deserts and in the 80s or 90s in the mountains, according to forecasters.
Authorities advised the public to avoid potentially serious heat-related ailments by staying well-hydrated, avoiding unnecessary outdoor labor and checking on neighbors and relatives ó especially those with health conditions and who lack air conditioning.
Officials also warned against leaving children or pets in parked cars, which can quickly become death traps in high heat. One caller to the Sentinel reminded pet owners to be aware that dogsí feet can be burned on hot concrete and asphalt.
Residents are urged to conserve electricity as much as possible, especially during peak hours from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. This can be done by not using appliances such as washing machines, dryers and microwave ovens, and by turning off lights and computers when they’re not needed.