The intense heat wave gripping Southern California has prompted local schools to adjust sports schedules to prioritize the well-being of their student athletes. With temperatures soaring, several schools have shifted game times and locations to minimize exposure to the sweltering conditions.
One example is the game between Granada Hills Charter High School and Palisades Charter High School, originally scheduled for Friday in Granada Hills. Recognizing the potential health risks, the event was relocated to Pacific Palisades, which is expected to have slightly cooler temperatures.
School officials are implementing additional safety measures, ensuring athletes stay hydrated and have frequent breaks. “We’re still taking precautions. It’s a running clock, we’re not going to go longer than two hours. Every 6 minutes or so, we’re stopping the game and having hydration breaks,” stated Rocky Montz, athletic director at Palisades Charter High School.
Other schools have opted to move their Friday games to Saturday morning, aiming to avoid the most intense heat.
For those attending Friday’s Dodgers game, evening temperatures will offer only modest relief. The peak heat near Dodger Stadium is predicted to hit around 2-3 p.m., with temperatures reaching 103 degrees. Even as people leave work and head to the game at 5 p.m., temperatures will still hover around 99 degrees. The game itself begins at 7:10 p.m., coinciding with sunset. While temperatures will drop slightly, it will still be uncomfortably hot in the lower 90s.
With the heat wave expected to continue, schools and organizations are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of athletes and spectators during outdoor events.
