Heat Wave Continues as Temperature Records Fall

The Southland began a new week today still in the grips of a heat wave, but a cooling trend was impending.

High temperatures were expected to again reach or top the century mark today in the San Fernando, Santa Clarita and Antelope valleys.

The National Weather Service forecast partly cloudy skies today and highs of 76 in San Clemente; 77 in Avalon and at LAX; 79 in Newport Beach and Laguna Hills; 86 in Long Beach; 87 in downtown L.A.; 89 in Anaheim and Irvine; 90 in Fullerton and Mission Viejo; 91 on Mount Wilson; 93 in Yorba Linda; 94 in Burbank; 95 in San Gabriel; 96 in Pasadena; 100 in Woodland Hills and Saugus; 103 in Palmdale; and 104 in Lancaster.

Tuesday’s temperatures were expected to be 4-6 degrees lower in several areas.

An excessive heat warning for the mountains and valleys of Los Angeles and Ventura counties remained in effect until 8 p.m. Sunday, when record highs were set in five Los Angeles County locales, the National Weather Service reported.

For the second day in a row Long Beach, Burbank and Sandberg set daily records Sunday. Long Beach registered a high of 96, surpassing the 95 high of 1992. Burbank’s 102 topped the 100 recorded in 1992 and 2000. In Sandberg, it was 99, passing the 98 of 1994.

Lancaster registered 108 Sunday, eclipsing the 107 high of Aug. 16, 2002.

NWS forecasters again urged area residents to protect themselves and their loved ones, recommending they:

-- drink plenty of water;

-- wear light-colored and lightweight clothing;

-- stay out of the midday sun;

-- provide shade and water for livestock and pets; and

-- check on neighbors and the elderly.

Forecasters also stressed that children, the elderly and pets should never be left in parked vehicles in the heat.