The National Weather Service’s excessive heat warnings for parts of Southern California remain in effect, even as temperatures moderated Thursday after reaching triple digits in the Santa Clarita Valley on Wednesday.

Today’s high in the SCV is expected to peak at 97, with partly sunny skies.

The service adds there is a 20 percent chance of thunderstorms producing dry lightning Thursday afternoon and evening in local mountains and the Antelope Valley. The storms may spread overnight throughout Los Angeles and Ventura counties, and in some areas produce heavy rainfall.

An excessive heat warning remains in effect for the mountains of Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara counties as well as the San Fernando, Santa Clarita and Antelope Valleys.

Along with health hazards, the heat brings along an extreme high fire danger; a Red Flag Warning also remains in effect.

Temperatures are expected to rise into triple digits again Friday before beginning to drop into the weekend, as the high pressure system begins to break down.

Saturday’s high is expected to reach 95, with wind kicking up in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph. Sunday’s tempeerature will peak at about 93, according to the Weather Service.

The combination of very hot days along with very warm nights can result in oppressive conditions in which the body cannot recover as quickly. Conditions like heat stroke or heat exhaustion are possible, especially if engaging in strenuous outdoor activities.

This weather could be deadly for unprepared campers or hikers.

Some tips for handling the heat:

* Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun

* Stay on the lowest floor out of the sun if air conditioning is not available

* Take advantage of opportunities to visit public air-conditioned buildings, such as libraries, schools, movies and shopping malls

* Eat well-balanced, light and regular meals

* Drink plenty of water

* Limit alcohol intake

* Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes

* Protect your face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.

* Check on friends and families — especially seniors and those with compromised health

* NEVER leave people or pets alone in closed vehicles

* Be aware of the symptoms of heat-induced illnesses: sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.