Extreme heat watch issued for parts of Los Angeles County

LOS ANGELES — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an Extreme Heat Watch for large portions of Los Angeles County, warning of dangerous temperatures from Wednesday, August 20, through Saturday, August 23. Forecasters noted a high likelihood that the Watch will be upgraded to an Extreme Heat Warning as conditions intensify.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is urging residents to take steps to prevent heat-related illness, especially groups more at risk: older adults, children, pregnant people, outdoor workers, athletes and individuals with chronic health conditions.

The affected areas include:

• Antelope Valley: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• Western Antelope Valley: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• Eastern Antelope Valley: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• Western San Gabriel Mountains/Highway 14 Corridor: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• Northwest L.A. County Mountains: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• East San Gabriel Mountains: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• Santa Clarita Valley: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• Western San Fernando Valley: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• Eastern San Fernando Valley: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• Santa Susana Mountains: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• Western Santa Monica Mountains: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• San Gabriel Valley: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• Calabasas/Agoura Hills: Wednesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 23

• Los Angeles Inland Coast: Thursday, August 21 through Friday, August 22

• East Santa Monica Mountains: Thursday, August 21 through Friday, August 22
  
  

According to the release, health officials are urging residents to take several precautions during the heat wave. These include staying well-hydrated, avoiding outdoor activity during peak heat hours and never leaving children or pets in parked vehicles. 

Health officials also emphasized the importance of recognizing the signs of heat stroke, which may include dizziness, vomiting, confusion or skin that is red, hot and dry. Communities are encouraged to check on elderly neighbors, individuals living alone and those with mobility or health challenges, who are particularly vulnerable during periods of extreme heat.

"Although it's crucial that we take care of ourselves, it's equally important that we extend our hand to those in need. We must look out for those who are more likely to get ill due to the heat, including the elderly, unwell, pregnant women, children and those living alone. Hot days aren't just uncomfortable -- they can be dangerous,” said Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, Los Angeles County Health Officer. 

County and city officials have activated cooling centers to provide relief for residents without air conditioning. These services are free and available throughout the county. To find a cooling center or recreational site near you, visit https://ready.lacounty.gov/heat/ or dial 2-1-1.