Statement as of 6:28 PM PDT on July 16, 2009

... Continued hot temperatures expected to persist across inland
areas through at least early next week...

A strong upper level high pressure system centered over the Desert
Southwest will continue to bring hot temperatures across inland
areas of southwest California through at least early next week.
Highs in the 90s will be common across the valleys and mountains
each day... with some of the warmest locations topping 100 degrees.
Meanwhile... the hottest temperatures will continue across the
Antelope Valley... where sizzling temperatures between 100 and 107
degrees will occur.

Temperatures along the coastal plain have been moderated by the
combination of onshore flow and a persistent marine layer. However
over the weekend... there is expected to be less marine influence
and weaker onshore flow. As a result... temperatures will increase
over the interior portions of the coastal plain... with warmest
locations expected to climb above 90 degrees.

Subtropical moisture across baja and the adjacent coastal waters
is expected to spread northwestward into our forecast area on
Friday. This moisture combined with the very warm air mass will
lead to even more discomfort across interior sections through at
least this weekend. At this time... it appears that heat index
values will remain below critical warning levels. This influx of
subtropical moisture will lead to a slight chance of afternoon and
evening thunderstorms across the mountains and deserts on Friday.

There is fairly high certainty that hot temperatures will prevail
across inland areas through early next week... and possibly through
next weekend. While temperatures are generally not expected to be
record breaking... the long duration of hot temperatures for the
valleys... mountains... and deserts are certainly significant.

Exposure to heat can be unhealthy and dangerous. If you plan on
being outdoors... remember to remain hydrated by drinking plenty of
water... wear loose-fitting clothing and a hat... and remain in the
shade or indoors as much as possible. Check on those that need
additional assistance... such as Young children and the elderly.