LOS ANGELES, July 6 (Xinhua) -- A heat wave shattered temperature records across southern California on Friday, creating dangerous fire weather conditions.
According to the National Weather Service, Woodland Hills broke its daily record with 117 Fahrenheit degrees (47.2 degrees centigrade), beating the former record of 106 Fahrenheit degrees (41.1 degrees centigrade) set in 1976.
Downtown Los Angeles hit 108 Fahrenheit degrees (42.2 degrees centigrade), breaking the previous record of 94 Fahrenheit degrees (34.4 degrees centigrade)set in 1992.
Camarillo broke its daily record high with 101 Fahrenheit degrees (38.3 degrees centigrade) and Long Beach with 109 Fahrenheit degrees (42.7 degrees centigrade). Other places that broke their record included Burbank, Van Nuys and so on.
"A dangerous heat wave is expected across the Desert Southwest into southern California through Saturday, including the Los Angeles and San Diego metro areas," said the National Weather Service in a warning. "The peak of the heat wave will be today into Saturday when widespread record breaking triple digit heat is expected."
"The extreme record-breaking heat in combination with single digit humidities and gusty north winds will continue to bring very critical fire weather conditions across the mountains, Santa Barbara south coast, Santa Clarita Valley, San Fernando Valley and Santa Monica mountains," said the agency.
"Record-breaking heat today - including daily records, a few for the month of July, and even a couple of all-time record highs. We will see a gradual cooling trend starting tomorrow," the National Weather Service tweeted in the afternoon.
California Governor's Office of Emergency Services tweeted: "Dangerous fire conditions throughout CA this weekend due to Red Flag Warnings. Be aware and prepared over the next several days. Check your family emergency plan, listen to authorities and be ready to evacuate if asked."
The National Weather Service attributed the dangerous heat wave to a strong upper level high pressure system.
There is increased potential for serious heat-related illnesses, especially for the young and elderly, those performing outdoor activities, as well as those without access to air conditioning, the National Weather Service warned.
"Never, ever, leave people or pets in enclosed vehicles, even for a short period of time," said the National Weather Service in a heat advisory.
"Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water," the agency added.
