A prolonged heat wave along with high winds are continuing to elevate the threat of fire danger throughout Southern California.
Red-flag warnings were expected through at least 8 p.m. Tuesday as temperatures continued to climb into the 80s on the coast and 90s in inland areas on Monday.
“We have not had any measurable rain in a while, so that’s going to make it even more dangerous when it comes to fire weather conditions,” NBC4 meteorologist Crystal Egger said.
Winds were expected to peak on Tuesday, with gusts between 25 and 35 miles per hour. Motorists were advised to be extra cautious and to prepare or sudden, gusty winds while driving.
By Wednesday and Thursday, temperatures were expected to soar into the triple digits, as coastal temperatures expected to peak in the low 90s.
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“It’s only going to get hotter from here,” Egger said. “This is a prolonged heat wave, it’s going to be with us all week long, so make sure your AC is working, check on your neighbors, the elderly, never leave your kids or your pets in a car unattended.”
The potentially record-high heat comes as drought conditions continue to worsen throughout California.
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A significant drop-off in heat was expected as the week comes to an end, with temperatures cooling into the mid 80s on Saturday and high 70s on Sunday.