Southern California swelters under June heat wave

Photo by Eric Pierce

It was another hot and dry day in the Southland Monday, with a mini heat wave expected to bring triple-digit heat to parts of the area, with the elevated temperatures continuing through Tuesday.

A heat advisory will be in effect until 8 p.m. Monday in the Los Angeles and Santa Monica mountains, but it will remain in effect until 8 p.m. Tuesday in the San Fernando, San Gabriel and Santa Clarita valleys.

Forecasters said the valleys and L.A. mountains could see temperatures as high as 105 degrees

"Hot and dry conditions will persist through Tuesday as a strong ridge of high pressure remains over the region," according to the National Weather Service.

Temperatures, however, are expected to drop off slightly on Tuesday -- roughly by 3 to 6 degrees -- but it will still be warm.

"Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside," forecasters advised. "When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible."

Monday was the second straight day of elevated temperatures.

On Sunday, the high temperature reached 104 degrees in Woodland Hills, where a high of 102 was forecast for Monday, according to the National Weather Service. Nearby West Hills reached 105, with an identical high expected Monday. Reseda hit 106 on Sunday, with a high of 105 expected Monday.

A high of 104 were expected Monday in Lancaster. Santa Clarita reached 101 on Sunday, with the same high forecast for Monday. The temperature in downtown Los Angeles reached 92 on Sunday, with a high of 93 forecast for Monday. Pasadena reached 101 on Sunday, with 102 expected on Monday.

In inland Orange County, Anaheim saw a high of 95 on Sunday, and was expected to get a high of 93 on Monday.

Things were much more pleasant at area beaches. Huntington Beach recorded a high of just 73 on Sunday, which was expected to rise to 77 Monday. Santa Monica also reached 73 on Sunday, with a forecast of 76 for Monday.

The very warm and dry conditions will produce elevated fire weather conditions through the middle of the week, with brief critical conditions in the windiest areas, according to the NWS.

"A low pressure system will move into the area on Wednesday, bringing southwest flow aloft and gradually cooling temperatures," forecasters said. "Overnight low clouds will continue to affect coastal areas through Wednesday, and may extend to some coastal valleys as well."

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. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes."

A list of cooling centers in Los Angeles County can be found at https://ready.lacounty.gov/heat/. Information about cooling centers in the city of Los Angeles can be found by calling 311.