LOS ANGELES (CNS) — A prolonged and potentially dangerous heat wave took hold across Southern California on Friday, sending temperatures into triple digits in parts of Los Angeles County.
The heat arrived in L.A. County Friday and actually exceeded expectations in and around the Downtown area where highs reached 102 as of 12:50 p.m., which not only matched the expected forecast for Saturday, but also broke the daily record, according to the National Weather Service. Forecasters said the temperature could climb even higher in downtown Los Angeles Friday afternoon.
The same situation occurred in Long Beach, where temperatures also exceeded expectations, according to the NWS. Woodland Hills reached 103 degrees and was expected to climb to between 105 and 107, while Burbank was in the 100-to 102-degree range.
The National Weather Service issued an Extreme Heat Warning through 8p.m. Thursday for coastal and valley areas of Los Angeles County. For most of Los Angeles County, Friday was expected to be the primary heating day, with only minor temperature fluctuations anticipated through next week.
For most L.A. areas today was the primary heating day with just minor fluctuations through next week, meaning a very hot next several days but minimal day to day changes, according to the NWS.
Coastal areas could warm slightly Saturday due to a small increase in offshore influence, forecasters said.
Extreme Heat Warnings will also remain in effect through 8 p.m. Thursday for coastal and inland Orange County. High temperatures in coastal Orange County are expected to range from the mid-80s to around 90 near the coast and reach the lower to mid-90s near higher coastal terrain. Inland Orange County highs are expected to range from the mid-90s to near 100.
Overnight lows in both coastal and inland Orange County are expected to remain mostly in the lower to mid-70s.
The hot weather is expected to persist through the coming week, according to the NWS. Temperatures could fluctuate as the offshore pressure gradient weakens early in the week, but some forecast models indicate temperatures could become even hotter from Wednesday through Friday. Forecasters said daily high-temperature records could be broken during that period.
Even though this heat wave will not likely produce record heat it will still be very dangerous due to the prolonged duration of the event, according to an earlier NWS forecast. The relentless heat will have a hazardous wearing down effect on people, (especially) the very young and old.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health urged residents to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during the hottest hours when possible and use air-conditioned spaces or cooling centers if they are unable to keep their homes cool.
“Heat causes more deaths in the U.S. annually than floods, storms, and lightning combined. Those most likely to get ill during the heat include older adults, young children, outdoor workers, athletes, and individuals with chronic medical conditions,” Los Angeles County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis said.
“Remember, your safety and the safety of others is crucial during extreme heat conditions. If you or someone around you experiences symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, confusion, or passing out, seek medical help immediately.”
County health officials also urged residents to check on people at higher risk of heat-related illness, including older adults, children, pregnant people, people with chronic health conditions, those who live alone and outdoor workers.
Residents without access to air conditioning can find cooling centers, splash pads and community pools by calling 211, county officials said. The city of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department urged residents without air conditioning to use public libraries, recreation facilities, senior centers or other air-conditioned public buildings. Residents can call 311 to locate nearby cooling facilities or use the city’s Cool Spots LA online tool.
Officials also urged people working, exercising or spending extended periods outdoors to reschedule strenuous activities for the early morning or evening when possible, wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
Anyone experiencing possible heat stroke should be moved to a cool, shaded location and 911 should be called, city officials said.
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