LOS ANGELES (CNS) - High temperatures -- including the high 90s and low 100s -- were forecast in the Southland today, along with the possibility of thunderstorms, heavy rain and flash flooding in areas previously denuded by wildfire.
Los Angeles County health officials, meanwhile, have issued a high heat advisory for this week, warning of 100-degree temperatures today in the Santa Clarita Valley and East San Gabriel Valley, and today through Thursday in the West San Fernando Valley.
“When temperatures are high, even a few hours of exertion may cause severe dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” said Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County's chief health officer. “While it is very important that everyone take special care of themselves, it is equally important that we reach out and check on others, in particular those who are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of high temperatures, including children, the elderly, and their pets,” Davis said.
Officials also warned people not to leave pets outside in the sun, or in cars.
A list of cooling centers can be found at publichealth.lacounty.gov/heat, or by calling 2-1-1.
The weather service this morning issued a flash flood watch for the San Gabriel Mountains in L.A. and Ventura counties and the Antelope Valley, effective from noon through mid evening, saying thunderstorms could trigger flash flooding in the eastern and northern San Gabriels.
“If a thunderstorm develops, it will be capable of 1 inch per hour rain rates,” according to an NWS statement. “Any storms that form today will also move very slowly, which will enhance the flash flood risk. Frequent lightning strikes are possible as well.”
The NWS added: “Flash flooding and debris flows will be a particular threat in and below the recently burned areas. Residents, in or below the recently burned areas are urged to take the steps necessary to protect their property. Persons in the watch area should remain alert and follow directions of emergency preparedness officials.”
The NWS forecast partly cloudy skies in L-A County today and highs of 82 at LAX; 83 on Mount Wilson; 85 in Avalon; 89 in Downtown L.A.; 92 in Long Beach; 93 in San Gabriel and Burbank; 97 in Pasadena; 98 in Saugus; 100 in Palmdale; 101 in Woodland Hills; and 102 in Lancaster. Temperatures will decline slightly beginning Friday.
Sunny skies were forecast in Orange County, along with highs of 79 in San Clemente; 80 in Newport Beach and Laguna Beach; 88 on Ortega Highway at 2,600 feet; 92 in Fullerton; 93 in Irvine; and 94 in Anaheim, Mission Viejo, Fremont Canyon and Trabuco Canyon. A slow cooldown will start Friday.
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