Good morning, Bakersfield.

Kern County cooling centers are open today from 1 to 8 p.m. to provide relief from the heat for unhoused and elderly residents at locations like the East Bakersfield Veteran Center — officials say neighbors should check on at-risk individuals.

Fire crews provided oxygen and water to several cats during a house fire in south Bakersfield near Castro Lane and Ming Avenue Sunday night; a source said the homeowner plans to shelter the rescued animals.

Local residents have been warned by BBB ScamTracker against door-to-door solar sales that promise free panels or federal credits.

Research and obtain at least three written estimates — key steps to avoid costly scams affecting your energy savings.

Bakersfield College hosted the 18th Project HireUp graduation ceremony on July 22 at Renegade Event Center, where fifteen students completed an 8-week program in career and personal development and shared stories of overcoming hardship; city officials and community partners attended.

Today, over 90 Kern County firefighters are deployed to assist with wildfire suppression in Southern California, Oregon, and Washington (working with partner agencies) to help affected communities.

Health experts in Kern County caution that hot, dry, and windy weather may lift valley fever spores in the area — nearly 4,000 cases were reported in 2024 and residents are advised to use protective measures when outdoors.

Links for Life is partnering with Kern Medical to offer free mobile 3D mammograms across nine Kern County locations starting Aug.

8, with the first screening in Bakersfield and a second in Shafter on Aug. 12; uninsured women aged 40+ can call 661-322-5601 to join the waiting list.

California Poison Control warns that some synthetic kratom products may have chemicals up to 10 times as potent as morphine (notably 'Buzzers' and 'Homiez' brands) amid an ongoing Utah death investigation, and advises checking supplements and consulting a doctor.

Triple-digit heat has pushed AC bills higher, but Floyd’s General Store is offering self-adhesive foam and door sweeps—costing about $16—to help seal windows and doors.

PG&E advises setting thermostats to 78 and running appliances before peak hours to ease energy costs.

Fireflies

7:30 p.m. & 2 p.m. — Bakersfield Community Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a heartwarming tale of late-in-life romance with Eleanor Bannister.

California's Best Hip Hop Music Festival

7-9 p.m. — Mechanics Bank Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience live performances from top West Coast hip hop artists.