Southern California is about to get blasted by a heat wave that is likely to bring 100-degree temperatures to parts of the San Fernando Valley this week.
“We’re going to have five days with temperatures well above the average,” KTLA meteorologist Henry DiCarlo said Monday morning.
A noticeable temperature jump is expected on Tuesday, with the hottest days likely to be recorded on Wednesday and Thursday, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
“High temperatures will be well above normal,” the NWS said in its Monday morning forecast. Predicted afternoon highs in the San Fernando Valley climb to 103 degrees on Wednesday and 101 degrees on Thursday.
Henry reminded Southern California residents that they may not be acclimated to the warmer weather and should take precautions, such as staying hydrated and remaining indoors during the hottest parts of the day.
“Heat illness is the number one weather-related killer for us here in Southern California. We’re entering a very dangerous stage with this weather,” Henry said.
High pressure over the region will also result in decreased air quality beginning on Monday, with many inland locations dropping to the “Moderate” or “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” range.
“High pressure is sinking air, so the pollutants have a tough time escaping, and that’s why now we are seeing unhealthy air quality, and it will only get worse,” Henry said.
Even more concerning is the increased risk of fire danger.
“There will also be elevated fire weather concerns with an increased risk of grass fires in the mountains, deserts and interior valleys,” weather officials stated on Sunday.
Forecasters were not expecting a prolonged heat wave, with temperatures likely to be closer to average again by Saturday and Sunday.