Southern California residents faced a combination of intense heat and dangerous ocean conditions Sunday as weather officials urged the public to take extra precautions across the region.
The National Weather Service warned that hot and muggy conditions will continue through at least Monday, creating a high risk of heat illness in many communities. A heat advisory covering Los Angeles and surrounding areas remains in effect until 8 p.m. Monday. Temperatures in downtown Los Angeles are expected to reach about 90 degrees Monday, while inland valleys and desert communities may experience much hotter conditions.
Forecasters said the length of the heat event is an important concern because warm overnight temperatures can make it difficult for homes and bodies to cool down. Older adults, young children, outdoor workers, people with health conditions and residents without air conditioning face the greatest risk.
Officials are asking residents to limit outdoor activities to the early morning hours, drink plenty of water and spend the afternoon and evening in air conditioned spaces whenever possible. People should also check on family members and neighbors and should never leave children or pets inside an unattended vehicle.
Many residents may consider heading to the coast for relief, but beaches in Orange and San Diego counties are also facing hazardous conditions. A beach hazards statement remains in effect through Wednesday afternoon, with surf of 3 to 6 feet and occasional sets reaching 7 feet. The National Weather Service reported a high risk of powerful and potentially life threatening rip currents.
Conditions could become even more dangerous later in the week. Forecasters said a larger swell connected to Hurricane Genevieve is expected to reach Southern California by Wednesday afternoon. Waves could reach 11 feet at some south and southwest facing beaches, and officials are considering additional warnings for high surf and coastal flooding.
Beach visitors are encouraged to stay close to staffed lifeguard towers and follow all posted warnings. Inexperienced swimmers should remain out of the water when strong surf or rip currents are present. People walking near the shoreline should also stay away from rocks, jetties and areas where unexpected waves can reach beyond the normal water line.
The heat and coastal hazards are expected to affect different parts of Southern California throughout the coming days. Residents should continue checking local forecasts and emergency alerts as conditions may change quickly.
