Expect a scorcher as high pressure sets in

A high pressure system settling in over the Southland is expected to push temperatures near 100 degrees today, prompting public health officials to issue heat- and unhealthy air-related warnings for the valleys.

The daytime high today is expected to reach 100 degrees in the Burbank-Glendale area, with little relief in sight for Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

A slight cooling trend is in the forecast for this weekend and should bring high temperatures back in the mid-90s.

Los Angeles County officials warned residents in the Santa Clarita and San Gabriel valleys to mindful of poor air quality today. Combined with high temperatures, the conditions could cause problems for those with respiratory illnesses, as well as the elderly, young children and pets.

They recommended people susceptible to heat-related health problems limit their outdoor exposure, and called on residents to keep a closer eye on pets and elderly neighbors.