Southern California braces for triple-digit heat

Soaring temperatures are expected to last into next week, with the mercury reaching triple digits in some Southern California areas, the National Weather Service said Thursday.

Excessive-heat warnings are in effect across the area, prompting officials to open “cooling centers” and issue recommendations for avoiding heatstroke and other health problems.

Officials also are bracing for increased wildfire danger in dry brush-covered mountain and foothill regions.

Los Angeles County has opened 89 cooling centers for residents to escape the expected record or near-record high temperatures. Click on the following link for an interactive map of the centers.

The heat could be especially dangerous for the elderly, small children and people with chronic ailments, authorities said.

The strong upper-level ridge of high pressure that is building over the Southland could last into next week, the weather service said. Heat will be particularly intense in the inland valleys and could reach 115-120 degrees in desert communities.

Authoritiies are urging residents to take precauctons, including the following:

• Do not leave pets or people in cars, even with the windows partially open
• Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, which is dehydrating
• Call 911 at the first signs of heatstroke, which can be fatal
• Avoid strenuous physical outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day
• Avoid unnecessary sun exposure
• Stay in air-conditioned areas, such as a library or cooling center.

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jean.merl@latimes.comTwitter: @jeanmerl