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Neon Tommy - Annenberg digital news

Heat Wave Hits Southern California

Amanda Martinez |
August 7, 2012 | 5:16 p.m. PDT

Supervising Executive Producer

The National Weather Service urged residents to stay inside air-conditioned residencies. (Velo Steve/Flickr)
The National Weather Service urged residents to stay inside air-conditioned residencies. (Velo Steve/Flickr)
Temperatures have heated up in Southern California, forcing the National Weather Service to issue an excessive heat warning for the region.

The Weather service urged Southern Californians to stay indoors during the heat wave.

"The possible combination of very hot days and higher-than-normal humidity can result in oppressive conditions," according to an NWS advisory. "Heat stroke or heat exhaustion are possible, especially when engaging in strenuous outdoor activities."

According to the LA Times, temperatures in the Mojave Desert will have highs over 100 with lows unlikely to fall below 90. Around the Antelope and Santa Clarita Valley, 110 is the projected high, with the Central Coast looking to hit around 105. Death Valley could face extremely high temperatures of 126 degrees, with the heat rolling over to Las Vegas for around 111. Downtown L.A. escapes some of the more extreme highs, sticking around the 90s. Beach areas are also expected to catch a break, highs only hitting around the low to mid-70s.

Southern California Edison officials have urged consumers to conserve energy to prevent any heat-related rolling blackouts. 

LA Weekly shared the utility provider's tips:

-Set thermostats no lower than 78 degrees.

-Use electric fans instead of air conditioning when practical.

-Turn off unused appliances and equipment.

-Shut off lights when leaving a room.

-Close drapes and blinds to keep out direct sunlight during hot periods.

-Avoid using evaporative coolers or humidifiers at the same time an air conditioner is running.

-Operate swimming pool equipment and energy-intensive appliances, such as dishwashers, washing machines and dryers, during early morning and evening hours.

-Limit the opening and reopening of refrigerators, which are major users of electricity in most homes.

-When possible, businesses should shift power-intensive work processes to morning or evening hours.

-Turn off lights in unused areas.

The scorching temperatures are expected to stick around until Sunday, with humidity increasing throughout the week.

For more of Neon Tommy's coverage on extreme temperatures and heat waves, click here.

Read the full story at the LA Times or LA Weekly.
Reach Supervising Executive Producer Amanda Martinez here.


 

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