The sun's piercing rays coupled with the high humidity made it nearly unbearable to be outdoors Wednesday.
"It was so hot at the market that it got really difficult to stand up, I felt faint. I was worried about my employees staying hydrated," said Elana Besserman, a kettle corn vendor at the Pershing Square farmers market.
Downtown L.A. hit 95 degrees, while temperatures in the valleys and inland reached into the triple digits.
"I think it's one of the hottest days we've had in a long, long time. It's sweltering," said resident Kathy Davidson.
Southern California Edison says Wednesday's power use shattered this year's record set just Tuesday. LADWP says it's experiencing its highest use this year as well.
Thursday's temperatures are forecast to be similarly searing, but should drop dramatically on Friday, falling by 10 degrees in some areas.
With the triple digit temperatures, the fire danger remains high throughout the Southland. Humidity is expected to drop later this week, and there's the possibility of Santa Ana conditions.
Firefighters are preparing for the worst and say they are ready for it.
"We are going to be more susceptible to brush fires and more humidity, higher temperatures" said L.A. County Fire Chief Daryl Osby. "We are expecting our first Santa Ana event this week."
L.A. County Supervisor Mike Antonovich said super scoopers that are leased every year from Canada are a great asset during fire season.
"They are an investment," said Antonovich. "An investment that taxpayers make with their professional county fire department to save life and property."
Health officials warn residents to minimize time spent outdoors and not to leave children or pets in unattended cars. If you are going to brave the hot temperatures make sure to drink plenty of water, stay in the shade and wear a hat.
