Heat warnings issued as high temperatures continue

Local daytime temperatures today are expected to hit 103 degrees as the high-pressure system continues to dominate the Southland.

Triple-degree heat is expected to last through the weekend, according to the National Weather Service, which cautioned against strenuous outdoor activities, especially during the mid-afternoon, when temperatures reach their peak.

Periodic spikes in humidity could also bring a slight chance of thunderstorm activity through the week -- a particularly dangerous combination with the dry conditions in the foothills and extreme heat.

Los Angeles County fire officials told the L.A. Times that the threat of wildfires this week would increase as the high temperatures dragged on.

The National Weather Service also warned the public against leaving small children, the elderly or pets in parked vehicles, even for a short time with the windows partially open, because "temperatures can quickly rise to life-threatening levels."