We’re fans of San Diego’s weather — but this week’s heatwave is raising the dial. The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning through 8 p.m. on Mon., Sept. 5, and the hottest is yet to come with temperatures in the inland valleys poised to hit 108º this weekend.

To beat the heat we’re sharing a refresher on county resources + safety information, and diving into some of our city’s coolest activities that will help you chill out.

🦺 Staying safe

These hot and dry temperatures can be a fire hazard. Keep an eye on fire warnings + road closures so emergency crews can safely tackle the flames. San Diego County also reminds locals to take precautions like cleaning up brush and debris around your home that could ignite (but don’t use power tools) and properly disposing of smoking + hazardous materials like coals for your Labor Day barbecue.

As always during hot weather, the county provided resources to identify heat-related illnesses and when to seek medical attention — and reminded us to stay hydrated.

🧊 Keeping cool

The California Independent System Operator issued a statewide Flex Alert for the past two days, asking locals to voluntarily cool it with electrical consumption. SDG&E provided residents with tips to use less energy, because more Flex Alerts are expected throughout the weekend.

County Cool Zones will be open at libraries to give locals a place to chill out, and some inland locations have extended hours for the holiday heatwave. Younger San Diegans might enjoy a trip to a local splash pad or jumping into a community pool.

Chill out with ice cream sandwiches from Baked Bear. | Photo via @kay_schnizz

🕶️ Local fun

Don’t let the heat torch your holiday weekend plans. There’s still plenty of local fun, and we’ve got ideas that won’t break too much of a sweat:

Expect crowds at our beautiful beaches over the long weekend, but you can still plan a trip. Stock up on local essentials beforehand, check for advisories, secure your spot on the sand early, and pack plenty of snacks + liquids.
Snapdragon Stadium opens on Saturday with SDSU Aztecs’first game at their new home. If you’d rather stay inside, watch it on CBS at 12:30 p.m. with a local beer.
Saturday is National Cinema Day, andmovie theaters tend to crank the AC. Find a local theater participating with $3 tickets.
Treat yourself to some ice cream at a local shop with exceptional offerings.
Be a guest and get a day pass to a local hotel pool.