Monday highs are predicted to reach up to 106 degrees Fahrenheit in Malibu as a potentially record-breaking heat wave roasts Southern California and other southwestern states.
National Weather Service (NWS) authorities are warning residents and visitors to Malibu and the south coast of high heat and fire danger this weekend and into the week, as low humidity, gusty winds and higher than average temperatures hit the area.
An Excessive Heat Warning will be in effect in Malibu from 11 a.m. Sunday, June 19, until 8 p.m. Monday, June 20.
A Red Flag Warning will be in effect from 11 a.m. Sunday, June 19, until 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 21.
Highs of up to 106 degrees Fahrenheit are predicted for the Malibu area on Monday, with wind gusts predicted up to 25 miles per hour.
Residents without air conditioning are encouraged to seek out cooling centers, according to information from Southern California Edison (SCE). These can be located by calling 211. According to SCE, the Westlake Village Library is a designated cooling area.
SCE predicted there may be outages due to excessive heat.
“An extended heat wave like the one forecast increases the likelihood of repair outages because when temperatures remain high overnight, electrical equipment gets no time to cool down and recover from the day’s heat,” SCE wrote in an online post.
The NWS also warned of dangers of the high temperatures.
“Dangerous heat-related illness is possible,” the NWS wrote. “Never … ever … leave people or pets in enclosed vehicles … even for a short period of time.
“Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside,” the warning continued. “When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.”
The Red Flag Warning means conditions are favorable for fire to spread rapidly.
“If fire ignition occurs, conditions will be favorable for extreme fire behavior and rapid fire spread, which could threaten life and property,” the NWS warned.