Kirk Hawkins

Southern California’s extreme heat is expected to continue through Friday, but forecasters say cooler temperatures will move in this weekend, along with a chance of thunderstorms on Sunday. “Summer is very much here and we’re definitely feeling it, especially if you’re in some of the interior areas,” KTLA’s Kirk Hawkins said Wednesday. A high-pressure ridge centered over the region will push temperatures between 92 and 103 degrees in valley locations, according to the National Weather Service.

Smoke from Fourth of July fireworks left parts of Southern California under poor air quality conditions Sunday morning, and the smoky air could linger into the afternoon, forecasters say. KTLA’s Kirk Hawkins said an air quality alert was in effect through about 10:45 a.m. Sunday but was expected to be extended until at least 3 p.m. as lingering smoke continued to affect the region.

Wednesday is expected to be the warmest day of what has already been a hot week in Southern California. “A heat advisory continues in some parts of the Southland,” KTLA’s Kirk Hawkins said. “Look for temperatures to remain in the 80s and 90s.” The heat advisory for areas of the Los Angeles County coast, downtown and valleys will remain in place through 9 p.m. Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.