SAN DIEGO (CNS) - A record-shattering heat wave that has kept the San Diego area roasting this week pushed temperatures to oppressive levels for a third straight day Wednesday as the stubborn swelter reached what was expected to be its zenith.
As they did Monday and Tuesday, this afternoon's highs reached the mid- 80s near the coast, past 100 degrees in the inland valleys and mountains, and up to near the 120-degree mark in the local deserts, according to the National Weather Service.
In Campo, the top thermometer reading of 108 exceeded the back-country town's old record of 104 for the date, set in 1959, the NWS reported. Ramona's high matched its existing milestone high of 101, set on July 25, 1977.
Other notable mercury levels included 95 in El Cajon; 97 in Poway; 99 in Alpine and the San Pasqual Valley; 100 in Escondido and Julian; 104 in Valley Center; and 119 in Ocotillo Wells.
Though the worst of the heat wave was expected to be over by this evening, an NWS excessive-heat warning will remain in effect in the county through 8 p.m. Thursday.
Authorities urge the public to avoid potential health hazards by drinking plenty of water or other non-alcoholic fluids, seeking out shady and/or air-conditioned environments and checking on relatives and neighbors -- particularly the elderly or home-bound people -- to ensure that they are handling the heat all right.
In addition, young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles during hot weather, when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes, officials warn.
While the strong high-pressure atmospheric system responsible for the sultry conditions will weaken slightly through the weekend, things will remain hotter than usual for this time of year, except near the beaches and at the highest local mountains areas, according to meteorologists.
A list of local public "cool zones" can be found here.
News 8's Heather Myers gives the latest weather update on the high heat and high surf. (Wednesday, July 25, 2018.)
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Facebook Video: Here are some folks beating the heat wave by kayaking off La Jolla. (July 23, 2018)