The National Weather Service (NWS) revised a standing Bay Area heat advisory to now include the City of San Francisco for today, September 6th until 8 PM Wednesday, September 7th. The highest temperatures are forecasted to be in the upper 80s to lower 90s, particularly this afternoon. Due to the urban environment and heat island effect, it may feel hotter than actual temperature readings. The southeastern bayside of SF can expect temperatures on the higher end above 90 degrees. Hot conditions will continue throughout the week with forecasted 80s for SF until Friday, September 9th. Keep in mind that heat can become trapped indoors and at approximately 10 degrees higher than outdoor temperatures overnight and for 1-2 days following a heat event. In addition, San Francisco has micro-climate environments, and some areas may be warmer or cooler than other areas.
Hot conditions will continue throughout the week with forecasted 80s for SF until Friday, September 9th. An additional concern is nighttime temperatures averaging in the mid- 60s providing only modest cooling relief overnight. Check NWS website for reliable real time temperature readings and forecasts. Read about the NWS heat advisory here.
This escalation places SF in the NWS risk level of Moderate Heat Impact. It means that there is a “moderate risk of heat-related illnesses to those sensitive to heat, such as older adults, infants, athletes, outdoor workers, those without effective cooling, and those with chronic disease. Some risk to the general population”. You can learn more about risk levels here.
Visit www.sf72.org for cooling tips and additional dedicated cooling centers (if they become activated).
Cooling Centers
Libraries are free public spaces with air conditioning, for the public to seek relief from the heat. Visit the SF Library webpage for open locations and hours.
SF Main – 100 Larkin Street – Air conditioning throughout the building; 243 reader seats
Chinatown/Him Mark Li Branch - 1135 Powell Street – Air conditioning throughout the building; 124 reader seats
Glen Park Branch - 2825 Diamond Street – Air conditioning in the meeting room; maximum capacity 30
Mission Bay Branch - 960 4th Street – Air conditioning throughout the building; 62 reader seats
North Beach Branch - 850 Columbus Avenue – Air conditioning in the meeting room; maximum capacity 50
Potrero Hill Branch - 1616 20th Street – Air conditioning in the meeting room; maximum capacity 20
Additionally, the following resource centers are available to avoid the heat for Persons Experiencing Homelessness:
MSC South Drop-in Center: 525 5th Street, open Daily, 24 hours
Glide Walk-In Center: 330 Ellis Street, Monday – Friday, 8:30am–9am
Mission Neighborhood Resource Center:165 Capp Street, Monday – Friday, 7am-12pm & 2pm–7pm; Saturday 7am-12pm
United Council, 2111 Jennings Street, Daily, 5pm-9am
Reminder about Heat Safety and Heat Illness Prevention Tips
It is important to check on family members, friends, neighbors, staff, and clients to recognize if someone is suffering from heat related symptoms. Older adults, infants, and those without access to air conditioning will likely be susceptible to heat related illnesses, which is a serious and immediate danger. Call 9-1-1 immediately if you or someone you know is having a medical emergency or showing signs of a heat stroke. Please take the necessary precautions to mitigate your heat exposure.
The following are steps you can take to help reduce the impact of increased temperatures for yourself, your staff and the community:
Pull shades down during the day and keep windows open at night.
Practice and message out “Window Safety” to protect toddlers and small children from falls.
Drink water to stay hydrated. Avoid drinking alcohol and sugared drinks.
Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
If outdoors, stay in shaded areas and wear light-colored, lightweight clothing and a hat.
Practice water safety during heat events, particularly in coastal areas.
Tips for wearing masks during high temperatures:
Choose a cooler material, like cotton
Make sure the mask fit is snugly, but not too tight— maintain physical distancing, especially if you wear your mask loosely.
Try masks with adjustable ties to make them more comfortable.
Bring extra masks so you can swap if one gets sweaty.
Multilingual guidance on extreme heat can be found HERE.
