What is causing the heat wave in California?

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- With temperatures climbing to record highs this weekend, you may be wondering what is causing this California heat wave. Heat waves can form when a high-pressure system moves into a region and stalls. The system can force warm air downward, acting like a cap as it keeps the cool air near the surface from rising, according to Accuweather.

But what is causing this particular 2020 Labor Day weekend heat wave?

According to our morning forecast, this particular heat wave is coming from an area of high pressure that is moving over into areas of Utah by Saturday. It then returns to Nevada on Sunday bringing very hot temperatures across Southern California.

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While outside temperatures ranged between 87 and 93 degrees during those hours, our large thermometer we left inside the car topped out beyond 140 degrees in less than an hour.

Try to limit your time outside to the mornings and the evenings, when the air will be coolest. You'll also want to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

RELATED | Tips for staying safe during a heat wave as the temperature rises

More than 600 people die each year from heat-related complications in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Follow these tips from AccuWeather to make sure you stay safe during a heat wave as the temperature rises.