Residents Hit Beach to Beat the Heat

The heat wave gripping the nation this week finally arrived in Orange County on Friday, sending temperatures into the 90s and ensuring big crowds at the beaches.

“We definitely had a good crowd” Friday, said Jeff Harman, a supervisor at San Clemente State Beach, where temperatures were about 20 degrees cooler than farther inland.

Meteorologist Jeff House of Weatherdata Inc., which provides forecasts to The Times, said Friday’s highs were 96 degrees in Anaheim, 99 in Irvine and 94 in Santa Ana, breaking a record for the date set in 1951.

With more of the same predicted for the weekend, House said, inland residents should take precautions against the heat.

“You need to drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty,” he said. “If you are working around the house, then try to take a lot of breaks and wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothes.”

Temperatures may be lower at the beach, but conditions can be just as dangerous for people who overexpose themselves to the sun.

“People should bring an umbrella and wear plenty of sunscreen,” said Michael Ronquillo, a lifeguard at Salt Creek Beach in South County. “It’s going to be really hot.”