A sizzling summer heat wave has arrived to Southern California, and it's expected to stick around through the weekend.
Temperatures could hit a record 113 in Palmdale on Friday, which would break the record set in 2007 and 1961. In Lancaster, temperatures are expected to reach 115, which falls a few degrees short of the record set in 2013.
"Hot and very dry temperatures will bring elevated indoor fire conditions through the weekend, which could lead to rapid fire spread," the National Weather Service Los Angeles said.
Some cities began to feel the tripe digits on Thursday, and forecasters said temperatures would begin to decrease by Monday. Elevated temperatures are likely to continue into next week, although more onshore flow is expected, helping to cool things off in the valleys. But mountains and interior areas "will likely continue to sizzle," forecasters said.
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"Max temperatures will be in the 100 to 110 degree Fahrenheit range, possibly higher in inland Los Angeles County,” according to the NWS. However, coastal areas could have better conditions thanks to a marine layer.
Warnings for excessive heat
The Los Angeles County Health Department has issued extreme heat advisories in these areas:
- Antelope Valley: Friday, July 14 to Monday, July 17
- Northwest Los Angeles County Mountains/Interstate Corridor 5: Friday, July 3 to Monday, July 17
- San Gabriel Mountains: Friday, July 14 through Monday, July 17
- Santa Clarita Valley: Friday, July 14 through Monday, July 17
Additionally, a heat advisory has been issued for the following areas:
- Northwest Los Angeles County Mountains and Interstate 5 Corridor: Effective Thursday, July 13, 2023
- San Gabriel Mountains and Highway 14 Corridor: Beginning Thursday, July 13
- Santa Clarita Valley: Beginning Thursday, July 13
Be careful
Authorities recommend staying hydrated, wearing light-colored clothing and not leaving children or pets unattended in a car.
In addition, the NWS said, “reduce exposure to heat and hydrate well. Be aware of heat related illnesses and seek medical attention. Be aware of potential fire ignition sources such as fireworks and lawn care equipment.”
Cooling centers
- Cooling centers for Los Angeles County can be found here.
- Cooling centers for the City of Los Angeles can be found here or by calling 311.
- For a list of cooling centers in Orange County, call 211 or click here.
- For a list of cooling centers in Riverside County, click here.
- For a list of cooling centers in San Bernardino County, click here.
City News Service contributed to this report.
