California is known for its sunshine and scenic beauty, but living here also comes with a host of serious health risks. From wildfire smoke and extreme heat to earthquakes and fast-spreading viruses, it’s important to know how to protect your health when nature turns deadly.

Let’s break down some of the most common health threats in California and how to stay prepared.

Wildfire Smoke and Air Quality

Just this year, Los Angeles has been devastated by two massive fires. Even if you’re far from the flames, wildfire smoke can travel for miles and affect the air you breathe.

Inhaling this smoke can cause coughing, chest pain, headaches, and difficulty breathing, especially for people with asthma, heart disease, or lung conditions. As wildfire season continues to start earlier and last longer each year, taking precautions has become essential.

To protect yourself:

• Stay indoors and keep windows closed during smoky days
• Use an air purifier or HEPA filter if possible
• Wear a well-fitted N95 mask when air quality is poor
• Check local air quality at AirNow.gov

Extreme Heat and Heat Illness

California often experiences heat waves, especially in urban areas. According to Scientific American, heat kills more people in the U.S. each year than hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can affect anyone, but older adults, children, and people with chronic conditions are most at risk.

Signs of heat exhaustion include:

• Dizziness or fainting
• Heavy sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea or vomiting

To protect yourself, and others:

• Drink water often, even if you’re not thirsty
• If possible, avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day (usually 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
• Wear light-colored, loose clothing
• Cool down with fans, cold showers, or damp towels
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors—especially older adults.

Earthquakes and Emergency Readiness

California is earthquake country. While we can’t predict when an earthquake will strike, we can prepare for them. The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services recommends that every family have a basic emergency kit, including:

• Water (1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days)
• Nonperishable food
• Flashlights and batteries
• Medications
• Important documents in a waterproof bag

You can also sign up for earthquake alerts on your smartphone using MyShake or ShakeAlert to get advance warnings.

Viruses and Infectious Diseases

California is the most populous state in the country, home to busy international airports, large social events, and lots of tourism. This which means viruses can spread quickly across communities. Each year, California sees seasonal outbreaks of the flu, surges in COVID-19, and increasing cases of RSV and other respiratory viruses. The state has also experienced measles outbreaks tied to low vaccination rates in some areas.

Crowded cities, close living conditions, and limited access to care in some communities can increase the spread of infectious diseases. That’s why prevention is key. The CDC recommends regular handwashing, staying up to date on vaccines, and avoiding close contact with others when you’re sick to help stop the spread of viruses.

To protect yourself, and others:

• Get your flu, COVID-19, and Tdap vaccines on schedule
• Wash your hands often, especially before eating or touching your face
• Stay home if you feel sick, even with mild symptoms
• Don’t share food, drinks, or personal items

Floods, Winds, and Power Outages

Extreme weather is happening more often, from heavy rains and flash floods to high winds that knock out power. Although these emergencies often occur without warning, there are some simple steps you can take ahead of time. 

To protect yourself:

• Keep your phone charged during storms
• Don’t drive through flooded streets
• Have a backup plan if you rely on powered medical devices
• Check in with loved ones to confirm everyone is safe/prepared

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) offers guidance on prepping for a range of natural disasters CDPH Emergency Preparedness.

Know Your Risks and Plan Ahead

Staying healthy in California means more than eating right and seeing a doctor. It means being prepared for the unexpected, whether it’s an explosive wildfire, lingering heat wave, or highly contagious virus.

Talk to your doctor if you have a chronic condition like asthma, heart disease, or diabetes, and ask what steps you should take during emergencies. And make sure your family, especially older adults, kids, and those with special needs, has a safety plan in place.

Your Health Partner, Rain or Shine

For over 55 years, AltaMed has helped Californians grow healthy. From routine checkups and screenings to dentistry, specialists, and pharmacy services, we have your back, and your family’s too. Get started online or by calling (888) 499-9303.