A heat wave was bearing down on the Southland Wednesday, promising several days of elevated temperatures and potentially dangerous conditions in some parts of the region through the weekend.
“High pressure will build over southern California through the rest of this week bringing very warm and dry weather to interior areas, peaking on Friday and Saturday,” according to the National Weather Service. “A few record high temperatures will be possible.”
The Antelope Valley is expected to be particularly affected, with an excessive heat warning taking effect at 10 a.m. Friday and continuing until 10 p.m. Saturday, with temperatures of up to 105 degrees anticipated.
A less severe excessive heat watch will be in effect Friday and Saturday in Los Angeles County mountains, where the mercury could reach 95. heat advisories will be in place from 10 a.m. Friday to 8 p.m. Saturday in the Santa Clarita Valley — where triple-digit heat is possible — and in the San Fernando and San Gabriel valleys, where it could get up to 95 degrees.
“Extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities,” according to the NWS.
As usual during heat waves, forecasters urged people to drink plenty of fluids, seek out air-conditioned spaces and check in on vulnerable relatives and neighbors.
“Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances,” forecasters warned. “This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.”
Temperatures are expected to drop by 5 to 10 degrees by Sunday, and another 3 to 6 degrees on Monday, lowering temperatures closer to normal.