LOS ANGELES, July 7 (Xinhua) -- Heat records are expected to be set or matched through Saturday across much of southern California, said the weather forecast on Friday.
"Dangerous and potentially life-threatening heat is expected through Saturday," warned the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS)."
"Very high temperatures will create a dangerous situation in which there is an increased threat of heat related illnesses. The extended heat wave will also bring elevated fire weather conditions through the weekend."
According to a statement of NWS, high temperatures on Friday and Saturday are expected to be between 100 and 110 Fahrenheit degrees (37.7 and 43.3 Centigrade degrees) across many interior sections of Southwest California, with local high temperatures up to 112 Fahrenheit degrees (44.4 Centigrade degrees).
In addition, the warmest portions of the Los Angeles coast and Santa Barbara South coast could see high temperatures climb to between 95 and 102 Fahrenheit degrees(35 and 38.8 Centigrade degrees), and locally to 105 Fahrenheit degrees (40.5 Centigrade degrees) in the foothills above Santa Barbara.
A 131-year-old heat record in downtown L.A. could fall on Saturday, according to Los Angeles Times.
The temperature in the region is expected to reach 96 Fahrenheit degrees (35.5 Centigrade degrees). The current record for the day is 95 Fahrenheit degrees (35 Centigrade degrees) - set in 1886.
NWS forecasters suggest local residents to protect themselves from the the sizzling temperatures which are the result of "a strong upper level high pressure system centered over the Desert Southwest."
People should take extra precautions if they have to work or spend time outside and reschedule activities to early morning or evening as much as possible.
NWS forecasters also warned "never, ever, leave people or pets in enclosed vehicles, even for a short period of time," because temperatures inside vehicles, even if the windows are partially open, can quickly rise to life-threatening levels.
