Temperatures reached triple digits in Paso Robles on Friday afternoon, and residents are well aware of the heat wave that is brewing.
Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore has changed its normal hours of 10am to 5pm to 7am to 2pm to allow employees and customers to escape the heat. Normal hours are expected to resume on Tuesday, when temperatures are expected to drop slightly from 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
The building doesn’t have air conditioning, and they use fans to keep as much heat in as possible, according to store manager Stephanie Wright.
“The big swamp cooler fans certainly help,” Wright noted, “but when the temperatures get higher, they’re not enough.”
Longtime customer Luis Maduena said he was surprised the store was closing so early.
“It’s not that hot inside,” he said. “We have a cooler and a swamp cooler and a little fan running, but it’s well insulated.”
Maduena, who has lived in the area for 30 years, said he is well accustomed to the dry heat and doesn’t spend much time outside.
“I always cover my windows,” Maduena said. “If I have a big window that gets direct sunlight, I usually cover it. It helps a lot.”
Wright, who has lived in the area since he was six years old, said he’s always prepared for the heat and was glad to have it cooler this summer.
“Growing up here, you know you’re going to experience summers with ups and downs in the weather,” Wright said.
In addition to using the well on the property to keep the animals hydrated in case of a power outage, she’s also making provisions for herself at home.
“Number one, we have backup generators in case of a power outage,” Wright said. “We also have a couple extra air conditioners running.”
“As long as the air conditioning is on and you’re not going in and out of the house and not getting too much sun. [you should be fine]” Maduena agreed.
Temperatures are expected to remain in the triple digits through Monday.
