A severe heatwave is expected to peak in Southern California on Wednesday, pushing temperatures into triple-digit territory and heightening wildfire risks.

Meteorologist Mike Wofford of the National Weather Service warned that vegetation remains unusually dry as the region enters its peak fire season, with any spark potentially leading to rapid fire spread.Temperatures are projected to rise 10-17 degrees above normal, prompting heat advisories for most of Los Angeles County, excluding coastal areas.Woodland Hills could reach 105-110°F, while downtown Los Angeles will experience humidity levels between 50-55%.

The National Weather Service issued red flag warnings for the I-5 corridor and Ventura County mountains, citing strong winds and hot temperatures as critical fire weather conditions.

Santa Barbara County’s south coast and mountains face gusts up to 50 mph, with coastal temperatures in the 90s and triple-digit readings in foothills.

Fire departments have pre-deployed resources, including 15 fire engines and bulldozers, while scientists note climate change is making Western heatwaves more frequent and intense.Although this particular heatwave’s link to climate change remains unclear, long-term trends show increased frequency and severity of such events.