Today expected to be hottest day of the summer

Today may be one of the hottest days of this summer, according to the Orange County Health Care Agency and the National Weather Service Forecast Office.

Forecaster Noel Isla at the National Weather Service said Orange County coastal temperatures of 81 to 86 degrees, and inland temperatures of 96 to 101 degrees are predicted for today.

The Orange County Health Care Agency advises staying indoors, using an air conditioner and drinking more fluids (especially water) to stay cool and prevent heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

The agency also recommends checking on adults with chronic medical conditions, as well as children and people with disabilities, as these groups are at the highest risk of suffering heat-related illness.

If you must be outside, the agency recommends wearing light, loose-fitting clothing, using sunscreen, avoiding over-exertion and never leaving children, pets, or older adults in an unattended car.

— Heidi Schultheis