An excessive heat watch has been issued for Los Angeles County for Saturday, meaning Angelenos can expect dangerous temperatures neighboring regions have been dealing with all week.
Weather Forecast | Maps & Radar | Severe Weather Alerts
The watch, defined by the National Weather Service as a prolonged period of hot temperatures, remains in effect for LA County through Saturday evening.
Heat index values are expected to reach 100 in the hottest areas.
LA County's neighbors have been struggling with heat problems of their own all week. Excessive heat warnings, a more serious NWS alert, are in effect for Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Daytime temperatures in some of those areas have reached the 110-to-114 range.
As part of LA County's excessive heat watch, the Los Angeles Fire Department issued a warning to residents.
"Minimize the risks of hot weather, prepare your household, pets and workplace, and plan to get relief from and avoid the effects of heat," according to the LAFD.
When outside, stay in the shade and wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing, according to the fire department.
Alcohol, caffeine and salt can magnify the heat's effects, so officials recommend light, healthy meals.
Stay hydrated, warned the LAFD.
Cooling centers have been set up across the county:
- North Hollywood Senior Citizen Center, 5301 Tujunga Ave., North Hollywood
- Sepulveda Recreation Center/Mid-Valley Senior Citizen Center, 8801 Kester Ave., Panorama City
- Sunland Park Senior Citizen Center, 8640 Fenwick St., Sunland
- Sylmar Recreation Center, 13109 Borden Ave., Sylmar
- Van Nuys-Sherman Oaks Senior Citizen Center, 5040 Van Nuys Blvd., Sherman Oaks
- Canoga Park Senior Citizen Center, 7326 Jordan Ave., Canoga Park
For more information about LA cooling centers, residents can call 2-1-1.
Officials also reminder drivers to be weary of children, City News Service reported:
- Put a teddy bear in your child's car seat. When you put the child in the seat, move the teddy bear up front with you. The visual reminder will lower the chance of you leaving the child in the car when you get out.
- If you see a child, dependent adult or pet alone in a hot vehicle, get involved. If they are hot or seem sick, get them out immediately. Call 911 for help.
- Don't leave your car keys where kids can get them. Always make sure that your car is locked so children cannot get in without adult supervision.
- Teach your children about the dangers of a hot car, especially the trunk.
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