HispanicBusiness

Sizzling heat hit has hit California's Inland Empire and it's expected to stick around, prompting San Bernardino County and weather forecasters to issue an extreme-heat advisory and cooling centers to gear up for more visitors.

Temperatures are expected to climb to triple digits in San Bernardino and Fontana today, while there will be even higher temperatures in the desert -- Barstow and Needles could see temperatures at 112 and 115 degrees, respectively.

Senior citizens, some who do not have air conditioning at home, have been turning up at the Fifth Street and Perris Hill senior centers in San Bernardino for relief.

"We had quite a few come here to get out of the heat (Monday)," said Linda Wilson Gomez, supervisor for both centers.

At the James S. Thalman Chino Hills Branch Library -- another cooling center -- people like to stop in to save some money on their electric bills, according to employees.

"They come in, use the computers, sit down and read," said Tina Chenevert, branch manager.

Jeremiah Crossland, who works at the Hutton Senior Center in Colton, said he expected an influx of people to turn up Tuesday for cold water, iced tea and air conditioning.

San Bernardino County Health Officer Maxwell Ohikhuare issued an extreme heat advisory Monday for the county as triple-digit temperatures were expected in the area through Wednesday.

While the weather can be unpleasant -- and sometimes dangerous -- it's proven to be a boon for air conditioning businesses.

"The phones are just ringing off the hook," said Trina Lozano, office manager for AIR ONE air conditioning and heating in San Bernardino.

Lozano said calls have been coming in from customers needing air conditioner repairs and estimates on new systems. "There have been a lot of calls," she said and they've begun ramping up during the past few days.