As an extreme heat warning remains in effect throughout Southern California through at least Sunday night, San Diego-area officials Thursday offered warnings and guidance for those headed outside. According to the National Weather Service, dangerously hot conditions with high temperatures in the mid-90s are forecast in the western valleys, with temperatures climbing to around 105 near the foothills. Temperatures ranging from mid-90s to mid-100s are also forecast for mountain communities. Meanwhile, desert communities could see temperatures rise to 115 or higher. Coastal areas will be cooler, but not by much. Expect the mercury to climb to mid-80s and 90s. In the city of San Diego, the city designates recreation centers, libraries and other public buildings as places for San Diegans to seek relief from warmer weather. Designated locations will be available during open hours; service animals will be allowed entry. Regularly scheduled programs and recreational activities may be taking place in these locations. A full list of locations can be found at www.sandiego.gov/PlacesToCoolDown. “We encourage residents who need shelter from the heat to take advantage of one of our many sites available to cool down,” Office of Emergency Services Chief Rob Rezende said. “We also advise residents to check on elderly and vulnerable neighbors to make sure they are safe during this heatwave.” Which San Diego County parks will be closed in August? As a result of the high heat, three San Diego County parks will close for the month of August — an annual safety measure aimed at protecting residents during what is often the hottest time of the year. El Capitan Preserve near Lakeside, Hellhole Canyon Preserve in Valley Center and Mt. Gower Preserve in Ramona will be closed through August. Agua Caliente Regional Park and Vallecito County Park, which are in or near the Anza- Borrego Desert, remain closed for the summer after shutting down Memorial Day weekend. They will reopen Labor Day weekend. Parks officials urge anyone hiking this summer to take extra precautions as dangerous health conditions persist. San Diego’s park rangers encourage people to exercise caution if they choose to visit the city’s trails and parks and be prepared with proper attire and plenty of drinking water. “It’s best to schedule hikes during the cooler morning or evening hours. Stay on the trails and leave pets at home during the heat of the day,” a city statement reads. The heat wave coincides with a coastal flood advisory due to large swells during high tide thanks to Hurricane Genevieve — large breaking waves of four to seven feet with sets up to nine feet on south-southwest facing beaches and three to six feet with sets to seven feet on west-facing beaches, the NWS said. Those in the coastal area can expect “flooding of low-lying beach parking lots, boardwalks, and roads. Dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion. Breaking waves can sweep people off jetties and docks, and into dangerous seas.” The advisory remains in effect until 5 p.m, Saturday. ...read more read less