Health: Relentless heat wave claims at least 19 lives in Santa Clara County

Gilroy Library is local cooling center

By Staff Report

The relentless heat waves have claimed at least 19 lives in Santa Clara County this month as of July 11, according to local officials.

The county medical examiner’s office reported the death toll could rise as more overnight deaths are still under investigation.

The scorching temperatures, which peaked during the Fourth of July holiday at 105 degrees in Gilroy, have particularly affected vulnerable populations. Among the deceased, at least two were unhoused, and one was enrolled in a transitional housing program. According to the Unhoused Response Group, at least six of the victims were older than 50.

In response to the crisis, the county’s Office of Emergency Management has opened more than 20 cooling centers, some with extended hours. The Valley Transportation Authority is offering free rides to these centers through Friday to ensure accessibility for all residents.

Charles Harris, a spokesperson for the Santa Clara County Office of Emergency Management, urged residents to check on their loved ones and make sure they have enough water and food, and that their air-conditioning is working. If they don’t have AC, they could be transported to a cooling center, he advised.

“The well-being of our community is of utmost importance,” Harris said in a press release. “We strongly urge everyone to take excessive heat warnings seriously and to implement the necessary measures to safeguard themselves and their families.”

Local organizations are also stepping up to provide relief. The Order of Malta Knights and other volunteer groups have been distributing supplies to encampments, including one near San Jose Mineta International Airport.

As the region braces for continued high temperatures through the summer, officials stress the importance of staying hydrated, seeking cool spaces, and looking out for vulnerable community members. The Office of Supportive Housing has increased its outreach efforts, providing water to encampments throughout the county.

With more hot days ahead, Santa Clara County residents are encouraged to stay informed about available resources and take necessary precautions to stay safe during this dangerous heat wave.

The Santa Clara County Office of Emergency Management has opened cooling centers throughout the county to provide relief from the heat. These centers, including county libraries in Gilroy and Morgan Hill and dedicated facilities, will offer air-conditioned spaces for community members.

Health officials warn high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Vulnerable populations, including young children, elderly individuals, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are at higher risk.

To stay safe during the heat wave, residents are advised to:

• Drink plenty of water, even if not thirsty
• Limit physical activity, especially between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Stay in air-conditioned areas when possible
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing
• Never leave people or pets in parked cars
• Check on vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbors
• Do not bundle babies in blankets or heavy clothing as they do not handle heat well because their sweat glands are not fully developed.

The county is also encouraging residents to sign up for AlertSCC at www.alertscc.org to receive emergency alerts and warnings directly from the county and trusted partners.

For more information on cooling center locations and hours, residents can visit www.preparescc.org/HotWeather. As the heat wave continues, officials stress the importance of community vigilance and proactive measures to ensure safety during this period of extreme weather.