KEY POINTS

  • A woman died while hiking in California as heat temperatures hit record highs
  • The National Weather Service recorded triple-digit temperatures across the state
  • Death Valley registered a record-high 125 degree, Los Angeles reported 121 degrees over the weekend

A woman died while hiking in California as the state set record-high temperatures, prompting authorities to shut down the Santa Monica Mountains trails.

The woman, whose identity was not released, collapsed Saturday afternoon on a trail near the city of Calabasas while she was hiking with a friend, NBC News reported. The Los Angeles County sheriff office said the woman felt sick before collapsing. The cause of death has yet to be determined, but they ruled out foul play. Several heat-related rescues have also been reported in the area.

The National Weather Service documented record-setting temperatures across much of the state over the weekend. On Saturday, Death Valley registered a record-high 125 degrees. On Sunday afternoon, Los Angeles experienced 121 degrees. The heat, coupled with dangerous conditions such as possible dry winds, have sparked concerns about public health and wildfires.

Millions of residents were also warned of rolling blackouts during the heat wave. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti urged citizens to avoid using power-sucking appliances and shut off extra lights to conserve energy.

The NWS issued its highest fire alert on Sunday as firefighters continue to battle blazes across California. The Creek fire that broke out in the Sierra National Forest over the weekend burned 45,000 acres of land and trapped at least 150 people near a reservoir. Authorities had to airlift dozens of campers after the fire surrounded their campsite.

Authorities have already issued an evacuation order for the lakeside communities on Saturday morning. They also urged people to stay away from surrounding communities.

The NWS encourages residents to drink plenty of fluids and stay out of the sun during the hottest hours of the day. They also urged people to check on relatives and neighbors who may be at risk during the heat wave.

Experts advise against leaving children, seniors and pets unattended in vehicles. Car interiors can easily reach lethal temperatures.

The county is also offering nine-air conditioned cooling centers to help residents escape the sweltering heat. A full list of locations and their guidelines can be found here.

Thousands of residents fled a city in northern California on Wednesday as a series of fast-moving wildfires spread across the state, burning dozens of homes and structures. The fire outside Vacaville is part of a series of blazes that have scorched nearly
Thousands of residents fled a city in northern California on Wednesday as a series of fast-moving wildfires spread across the state, burning dozens of homes and structures. The fire outside Vacaville is part of a series of blazes that have scorched nearly 50,000 acres in the region in recent days. AFPTV / Virginie GOUBIER
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