A mini heat wave is headed for the Southland starting Tuesday.
While temperatures were in the normal range Monday, the National Weather Service warned of “big changes coming” — with overall highs expected to be 5-10 degrees above area norms.
The heat spell was forecast to peak Wednesday and Thursday, ahead of some weekend cooling, followed by another bout of above-average temps early next week.
Starting Tuesday, highs in the valleys are expected to range between the mid-90s to around 103 — while Woodland Hills, traditionally among the hottest spots in the San Fernando Valley, was looking at a 20%-30% chance of reaching 106 degrees, forecasters said.
Meanwhile, areas more than 10 miles inland were expected to be in the 80s to around 90, while areas farther inland were looking at a forecast of 100-106 degrees and even a 20% chance of topping out at 108.
The culprit, according to the weather service, was a high-pressure system over Arizona that’s expanding westward into Southern California.
“Weakening onshore flow and subsidence aloft from the strengthening high pressure system will squash the marine layer to under 1,000 feet by Wednesday and bring significant warming to inland areas and minor warming to coastal areas,” the NWS said.
Nighttime temps were expected to be in the upper 50s to mid-60s throughout the mini hot spell.
Fire conditions were “seasonably elevated” Monday and were expected to be elevated further Tuesday into early next week — with brief “critical fire weather conditions” in interior regions.
As always, health officials warn that, during heat waves, people should take precautions such as limiting outdoor activities, seeking out shade and staying hydrated.
Pets should also be kept in shady areas and given ample water. In addition, the public is reminded to never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles for even a minute, as the interior of vehicles can quickly reach lethal temperatures.