Southland Residents Brace For Scorching Temperatures

PALMDALE (CBSLA.com) — Forecasters are advising residents of several Southland communities to stay indoors this weekend to avoid an intense heat wave.

Residents in the Inland Empire, high desert and valleys can expect record-high temperatures.

Meteorologist Curt Kaplan, of the National Weather Service in Oxnard, told KNX 1070's Pete Demetriou that a very large high-pressure system parked over the western U.S. triggered the excessive heat warning.

"If you go out to the Antelope Valley and Lancaster, they're going to see anywhere between 108 and 115 degrees. And as far as the San Fernando Valley, we can expect temperatures between 100 and 108, also for the Santa Clarita Valley," Kaplan said.

Officials warn this degree of heat can pose a health risk.

"Exceedingly high temperatures can cause heat-related illness or death," a National Weather Service advisory said. "Those working or playing outdoors, and those without air conditioning are most vulnerable."

To avoid falling victim to the heat, residents are encouraged to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, avoid rigorous outdoor exercise and drink plenty of water.  Officials also stress that children, seniors or pets must never be left alone in a parked vehicle.

Officials suggest that those feeling strained by the weather head to one of the 89 cooling centers in Los Angeles County. For more information, call 211 or click here.

As many get ready to crank up their air conditioners, the question on many people's minds is whether the state's power grids are up to the task.

Cal ISO spokesperson Steve Greenlee told KNX 1070 that they would be monitoring energy usage closely. If deemed excessive, officials are prepared to issue Flex Alerts, which are part of an emergency alert program that informs consumers about how and when to conserve electricity.

To help reduce electricity demand, residents are asked to restrict using major appliances to the early morning or after 7 p.m. Officials also ask that people turn off lights, air conditioners, computers, televisions and other appliances when not in use.