A scorching heat wave is making its way towards Southern California, bringing with it the hottest temperatures of the summer season. Forecasters are predicting that a high pressure ridge will usher in temperatures that are 5 to 10 degrees higher than normal along the coast, and up to a staggering 20 degrees above average in inland communities. Residents are being warned to prepare for four consecutive days of intense heat, marking this heat wave as hotter and longer than previous ones.

According to Mike Wofford, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service, the most sweltering temperatures are expected to hit between Wednesday and Friday. In the San Fernando Valley, temperatures could reach a scorching 110 to 115 degrees, while downtown Los Angeles is forecasted to experience temperatures in the mid to high 90s. Triple-digit temperatures are also expected in Burbank, Woodland Hills, Pasadena, Santa Clarita, and Palm Springs.

This early September heat wave follows what UCLA climate scientist Daniel Swain predicts could be the hottest summer on record in most parts of California. Although the immediate coastline largely escaped record-breaking heat, the majority of California's land area has experienced an exceptionally hot summer. Swain noted this discrepancy between the land and the population in a blog post, stating that while most of the state's land area endured extreme heat, the majority of the population did not.

In response to the impending heat wave, the National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for most of Los Angeles County from Wednesday morning until Friday evening. Peak temperatures reaching 95 to 110 degrees are anticipated during this time, with minimal relief expected overnight as temperatures remain in the 70s and 80s. Other areas such as Long Beach, the Antelope Valley, Pasadena, Burbank, Santa Clarita, and Palm Springs will also experience scorching temperatures.

To mitigate the potential risks posed by the extreme heat, Mayor Karen Bass has announced the opening of cooling centers across Los Angeles. These centers, including "climate stations" on Skid Row, will provide shade, seating, and cold beverages to help residents escape the oppressive heat. The public is encouraged to refer to online resources for a list of cooling centers and climate stations.

While this heat wave is expected to challenge previous temperature records, it is not projected to surpass them. For example, in 2020, temperatures reached 120 degrees in Woodland Hills, 111 degrees in downtown Los Angeles, and 114 degrees in Burbank. Death Valley, known for its scorching temperatures, experienced its hottest month ever recorded in July. Temperatures in the national park are anticipated to peak at 118 degrees during this heat wave.

Inland areas of California, such as the Inland Empire, Inland Orange County, and parts of San Diego County, may also witness near-record-setting temperatures. The Inland Empire could see temperatures as high as 112 degrees, while Inland Orange County is expected to remain in the 90s and inland portions of San Diego County could reach up to 102 degrees.

While fire danger is a concern during this sweltering period, one silver lining is the absence of Santa Ana winds, reducing the risk of fast-spreading wildfires. Philip Gonsalves, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in San Diego, noted that a narrow strip near the beaches will have temperatures below 90 degrees, thanks to the presence of a marine layer and a sea breeze.

Although temperatures are expected to slightly decrease by the weekend, they will remain above normal. It is crucial for Southern Californians to stay hydrated, avoid leaving pets or children in hot cars, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses. Vulnerable populations, including pregnant individuals, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses, are particularly at risk and should seek refuge in shaded areas, stay hydrated, and utilize cooling centers or public spaces with air conditioning.

David Eisenman, a professor of medicine and public health at UCLA, highlighted the importance of addressing extreme heat events as serious disasters, as they can be deadly for vulnerable groups. He advised individuals to draw shades early in the day, stay hydrated, cool down with showers or fans, and seek refuge in libraries or cooling centers.

As Southern California prepares for the most intense heat wave of the summer, residents are urged to take necessary precautions to stay safe and cool during this challenging weather event.