Southern California girds for record-breaking heat
People planning outdoor activities in Southern California today are urged to drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade as the region braces for record-breaking temperatures.
The National Weather Service is forecasting a high of 106 in Woodland Hills, topping a previous record of 101 for the day. Long Beach is expected to hit 96, breaking the previous high for the day of 92. The mercury in downtown Los Angeles, meanwhile, is expected to reach 97, one degree above the previous May 17 record.
"We're asking people to take the heat into consideration and wear appropriate clothing, drink plenty of water and take advantage of the shade," said Jamie Meier, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. "We urge people never to leave children, pets or other people in the car even for short amounts of time."
Although the heat will be scorching, there was some good news for more than 300 firefighters battling a blaze near Mt. Baldy, which has burned at least 460 acres. The blaze was 72% contained by Friday evening and was expected to be fully contained Sunday, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
Warm off-shore gusts that blew through the area on Friday were expected to diminish today and continue decreasing in strength on Sunday, Meier said. The high temperatures have been caused by a huge ridge of high pressure, which is sitting right over Los Angeles and surrounding counties.
robert.lopez@latimes.com
