The region’s heat wave should begin to taper off a bit after a final day of intensity Sunday as near-record, triple-digit highs were expected in many areas of the Southland for the final day of the weekend.
An excessive heat warning remained in effect for the mountains as well as the valleys of Los Angeles and Ventura counties,” according to the National Weather Service. “Triple-digit heat will be common for these locations with warmest valley locations climbing to 108 degrees.”
Forecasters said humidity levels could drop to around 10 to 15 percent in some inland areas, and winds could gust to 20 to 30 mph — creating heightened risk of wildfires each afternoon this weekend.
A wildfire raced through the Angeles National Forest out of control through the weekend amid temperatures that hovered around 100 degrees, and smaller fires occurred around the Southland.
The heat warning is expected to remain in effect until at least 8 p.m. Sunday, with some slight cooling expected to begin Monday.
In San Fernando, a new a cooling center was opened to give residents without air conditioning a place to escape to as the heat wave continues through Monday, officials said. The center, at 208 Park Ave., is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., police said. Another cooling center was opened in Tustin.
“The prolonged heat wave will bring the risk of heat-related illness through the weekend. Those at highest risk include children, the elderly, and pets without adequate shelter,” forecasters warned.
The NWS noted “the heat will bring extra demand on electricity for the Southland, bringing an increased threat of power outages.”
NWS forecasters again urged area residents to protect themselves and their loved ones, recommending they:
— drink plenty of water;
— wear light-colored and lightweight clothing;
— stay out of the midday sun;
— provide shade and water for livestock and pets; and
— check on neighbors and the elderly.
Forecasters also stressed that children, the elderly and pets should never be left in parked vehicles in the heat.
To help conserve energy, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power recommended:
— adjusting thermostats to 78 degrees;
— limiting the use of appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers during peak hours;
— closing drapes and blinds;
— turning off lights in rooms not being used;
— unplugging devices that can use energy even when they’re not being used, such as cell phone chargers, DVD players and microwave ovens; and
— ventilating homes by opening windows and doors to allow cooler air to circulate.
City News Service contributed to this article.