Southland heat wave hits peak Saturday; red flag warning issued

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Southern California faces another day of extreme heat and dry weather, as temperatures are expected to hit triple digits in some areas.

A red flag warning was issued and expected to last until 7 p.m. Saturday for the Los Angeles County mountains. The warning signifies an elevated fire danger sparked by a combination of strong winds, low humidity and hot temperatures.

Temperatures in Los Angeles and Orange Counties are expected to climb to the upper-90s, while the valleys and Inland empire are predicted to reach a high of 106 degrees. Humidity was less than 10 percent and winds were gusting up to 35 miles per hour in some areas.

A cool down is expected next week.

Earlier this week, a red flag warning was issued across Los Angeles and Ventura County mountains and valleys. The Long Beach Unified School District dismissed its 76,000 students an hour early on Thursday and Friday because of the high heat.

National Weather Service officials are warning people to take precautions when spending time outside to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Consecutive days of hot weather increases heat stress and makes it difficult for the bodies to cool. Drinking water and wearing lightweight and loose-fitting clothing are recommended.