Sweltering heat wave to grip Southern California next week

Southern California is enjoying a comfortable stretch of below-average temperatures that should continue through Father’s Day, but a strong heat wave is looming.

A significant warming trend will begin early next week before peaking Wednesday and Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.

“Another one of those ridges of high pressure is expected to build in, with temperatures really heating up,” KTLA’s Kirk Hawkins said. “We’re looking at temperatures reaching triple digits in parts of the High Desert and Inland Empire as well.”

An extreme heat watch has been issued for parts of Los Angeles County, including Woodland Hills, Pomona, Pasadena, Santa Clarita and other areas, from Tuesday morning through Thursday evening.

Temperatures in those areas could range from the upper 80s to 100 degrees.

The Weather Service suggested the following actions:

• Continue to monitor the latest forecasts, as the amount of heating is still uncertain
• Adjust plans now to stay cool next week
• Check in with elderly neighbors and family members to ensure they are aware of the hot forecast

The high-pressure system is expected to weaken on Thursday, bringing cooler temperatures as we head into next weekend.