Southern California should prepare for 'dangerously hot' temperatures through Saturday, but elevated heat will persist into early next week.

The peak of the heat wave is expected Thursday and Friday, the National Weather Service said. While it’s brought hotter temperatures than in recent weeks, it is not particularly extreme in terms of all-time Southern California highs. “This is definitely more normal heat for this time of year,” Sam Zuber, an NWS meteorologist said.

An extreme heat warning will be in place until 9 p.m. Saturday for most of the area, including downtown Los Angeles. Valley and mountain areas could see highs reaching 110 degrees or more, according to the National Weather Service.