Southern California is gearing up for a powerful heat wave that will bring sweltering temperatures starting on Tuesday. The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat watch for most of the region, excluding coastal areas, from Tuesday through Friday. Temperatures are expected to climb steadily throughout the week, reaching hazardous levels by mid-week for most areas, with the exception of the beaches.
The valleys will bear the brunt of the heat, with the Antelope Valley already experiencing triple-digit highs. The Santa Clarita and San Fernando valleys will join the triple-digit club beginning Tuesday, followed by the San Gabriel Valley on Thursday. Nighttime temperatures will also be elevated, staying in the 70s for the valleys towards the end of the week and into next weekend.
Orange County will also feel the heat, with Anaheim expecting temperatures around 92 degrees on Wednesday. The hot, dry conditions will significantly elevate fire risks throughout the mountains, valleys, and deserts.
Health officials are urging the public to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. They recommend staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, staying indoors in air-conditioned rooms, limiting sun exposure, and checking on elderly relatives and neighbors. They also emphasize the importance of never leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles, as car interiors can quickly reach lethal temperatures.
The heat wave extends beyond Southern California, with 28 million Americans in the Southwest under heat alerts. An excessive heat watch is in effect for cities like Las Vegas, Phoenix, Fresno, and Bakersfield from Wednesday to Friday, with temperatures potentially reaching 95 to 110 degrees. This alert is expected to be upgraded to a heat advisory or an excessive heat warning in the coming days.
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