Heat Wave Brings Beach Dangers to LA County

LA County beaches are under a Beach Hazards warning due to a chance of thunderstorms and lightning. A heat wave is expected to bring temperatures above 100 degrees in some areas, with a 10-20% chance of lightning across LA County beaches.

This hot weather is drawing people to the beaches, but it's also leading to more rescues. The LA County Fire Lifeguards have already had 255 ocean rescues over the past weekend, with many of them due to rip currents. These powerful channels of water can catch anyone off guard, even if they're standing on a sandbar.

If you get caught in a rip current, the most important thing is to stay calm. Flip onto your back and float, and the water will only pull you slightly outside of the surf line. If you feel strong enough, swim parallel to the shore to escape the rip current. But if you're not a strong swimmer, just wave for help and the lifeguards will come to your rescue.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory and an extreme heat warning for many areas, with temperatures potentially reaching 110 degrees. Authorities are advising people to drink plenty of fluids, stay out of the sun during the hottest parts of the day, and check on friends and neighbors who may be at risk.

Children and pets should never be left in a parked car, even with the windows cracked open. The temperature inside a car can quickly become deadly. If you're planning to head to the beach, make sure to check in with a lifeguard station for the latest updates on swimming conditions and the weather.