Los Angeles expects a sizzling Fourth

A heat wave that has some portions of Southern California experiencing triple-digit temperatures will hit its peak on Sunday, officials said.

Caused by a high-pressure system over the Four Corners — where Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico and Utah meet — the rising temperatures have made for a toasty holiday weekend.

The Antelope Valley and parts of the Inland Empire were expected to reach well over 100 degrees on Sunday, said Bonnie Bartling, a weather specialist with the National Weather Service. The Santa Clarita Valley could reach 105, while the San Fernando and San Gabriel valleys were expected to rise to about 98.

“Drink plenty of fluids, check on elderly friends and neighbors and never leave your children or pets unattended in a hot vehicle even for a few minutes,” Bartling advised. “It’s amazing how quickly a car can get hotter than outside. Just use common sense.”

Downtown Los Angeles was expected to reach about 90, and the Hollywood Hills area was likely to rise into the upper 90s. The coastal areas should remain in the 70s and 80s.

No record-breaking numbers were on the horizon, said Bartling, and a slight cooling trend was expected to begin on Monday, with temperatures gradually decreasing each day. By the end of the week, downtown Los Angeles should be about 80 degrees, she said.

The National Weather Service issued a special weather advisory about a slight chance of thunderstorms on Monday across the mountains and Antelope Valley. The high temperatures, low humidity and possible dry lightning were conditions suitable for starting fires, it said.

Los Angeles County officials encouraged people to avoid heat-related illnesses by seeking shade often, avoiding strenuous activities, steering clear of caffeine and alcohol and drinking plenty of other liquids.

For many in Southern California, the three-day weekend and sunny skies were a winning combination.

“The sun’s out, it’s the first Saturday of July and most of my friends are out there on the beach,” said Hollywood resident Marie Pandora Medina, 29. “We’ll probably go shopping on the boardwalk, buy a couple bathing suits and lay out. It’s beautiful out — might as well go enjoy it.”

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