Dangerous heat wave hits Southern California with triple-digit temperatures
A dangerous heat wave hit Southern California with triple-digit temperatures, making it one of the hottest winters to date.
An extreme heat warning will be in effect until 8 p.m. on Friday as record-breaking temperatures are forecast to be between 96 and 104 degrees.
The National Weather Service says there is a high risk for heat illness for just about everyone, but especially for communities away from the coast. The NWS urges the public to take extra precautions, including drinking plenty of water, avoiding outdoor activities and staying inside air-conditioned rooms.
At a news conference on Monday afternoon addressing the heat, LA County Fire Department Chief Anthony Marrone said this weather event is not expected to be accompanied by strong winds, which are a factor in spreading wildfires.
A CBS LA Next Weather Alert is in effect for all Southern California communities due to the prolonged heat. Chief meteorologist Paul Deanno says that usually during this time of year, temperatures are in the 70s and much cooler but the elevated temperatures will make it one of the hottest Marches on record.
"As for records, not only are daily temperature records likely to be broken across the region, but even the high temperature records for any day in the entire month of March," the NWS says. "Not every location will break records each day, nor their monthly march records, but the majority of locations may do so."
The following areas broke their records for the highest temperatures:
- Downtown LA, 97 degrees; old record 94
- LAX, 92 degrees; old record 91
- Long Beach, 98 degrees; old record 95
- Burbank, 94 degrees; old record 92
- Woodland Hills, 100 degrees; old record 93
High temperatures for the rest of the week will be in the mid 90s to low-100s, with minimal day-to-day changes. Overnight lows are also expected to be warm, which will limit overnight relief.
Officials remind the public to never leave young children or pets inside a locked car in the sun.
Cooling centers in Southern California
Several counties and cities across the Southern California region have cooling centers that are open to the public. The centers offer air-conditioned spaces, water and information about heat-related illnesses.
On Monday, in preparation for the weather event, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said hundreds of city facilities, including libraries and recreation centers, are available for Angelenos to stay cool, some with extended hours. "Do not hesitate -- get indoors and into air conditioning and protect yourself," Bass said.
Los Angeles County cooling centers
San Bernardino County cooling centers
Riverside County cooling centers
Ventura County cooling centers
Heat-related illnesses
Severe heat can cause several health issues, including exhaustion, stroke and cramps.
Heat exhaustion symptoms:
- Feeling dizzy
- Excessive sweating
- Nausea, vomiting
- Clammy or pale skin
- Rapid, weak pulse
Heat stroke symptoms:
- No sweating
- Nausea, vomiting
- Headache
- Rapid, strong pulse
If you or someone you know is experiencing a heat-related illness, officials recommend moving to a cooler place and drinking water. If symptoms worsen, they recommend you seek emergency help.
Conserving energy during the heat wave
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), which provides electricity to more than 1.4 million customers across the region, reminds residents to conserve energy where possible during the heat wave. The LADWP recommends limiting the potential strain on neighborhood electrical infrastructure.
Ways to conserve energy during the heat wave:
- Adjust air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees. If you are away from your home and do not have pets inside, turn off the air conditioning system.
- Turn off lights and other electrical equipment when not in use.
- Limit the use of major appliances such as washing machines, vacuum cleaners, and dishwashers to before 4:00 PM or after 9:00 PM.
- Ventilate your home in the early morning and evening by opening windows and doors to clear out the heat and allow cooler air to circulate. Close curtains, shades or blinds during warmer hours to reduce heat from direct sunlight.
