Southern California is bracing for a heat wave that will push temperatures upward starting Friday and continuing into early next week. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory and excessive heat watch for several areas, warning of dangerously hot conditions, especially in mountain areas and the Antelope Valley.
The heat advisory, in effect from 10 a.m. Saturday through 8 p.m. Sunday, covers the Santa Clarita, San Fernando, and San Gabriel valleys, where temperatures could reach 101 degrees. An excessive heat watch will be in place from Saturday morning through Sunday evening in the San Gabriel Mountains, the Antelope Valley foothills, and the 14 Freeway corridor.
Forecasters predict a gradual increase in temperatures throughout the week, with above-normal temperatures anticipated starting Friday. The Antelope Valley is expected to see highs between 103-108 degrees on Saturday, while coastal and interior valleys will be in the mid 80s to upper 90s. Inland coastal areas will see temperatures in the 80s, while beaches will remain in the upper 60s to mid 70s.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued a heat advisory for the valley areas for Saturday and Sunday. Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County Health Officer, emphasized the importance of staying cool and hydrated, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with health conditions. He urged residents to check on elderly or unwell neighbors and relatives regularly and never leave children, the elderly, or pets alone in hot homes, places, or vehicles.
Both the city and county of Los Angeles operate cooling centers for residents seeking relief from the heat. Information on cooling center locations can be found at ready.lacounty.gov/heat or by calling 211.
Meanwhile, the South Coast Air Quality Management District has issued an ozone, or smog, advisory that will be in effect from 11 a.m. Friday through 7 p.m. Tuesday. The advisory covers most non-coastal areas of Los Angeles County and extends into much of Riverside County.
Extreme heat is expected to lead to unhealthy or worse air quality conditions in much of the area. The AQMD urges residents to check air quality levels and limit outdoor activities, minimize the use of gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment until evening hours, and conserve electricity.
