Possible record heat, thunderstorms in unsettled Southern California forecast

Residents in parts of Southern California are bracing for possible record temperatures and a chance of thunderstorms over the next few days.

"Dramatic warming is expected today and Friday, with above normal temperatures into the weekend," the National Weather Service (NWS) stated in its forecast discussion Thursday morning.

Afternoon highs are expected to climb into the high 90s or even reach 100 degrees in some areas by Friday.

Temperatures between 8 and 16 degrees above normal could set some record highs for the day, according to the NWS. Forecasters will be keeping an especially close eye on Paso Robles, where the current daily record is 102.

The influence of high pressure over the region will also bring a "mixed bag" when it comes to our air quality, KTLA's Kirk Hawkins said.

Redlands, Banning and Perris will drop to the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category. Moderate conditions are expected for El Monte, Whittier and Anaheim, while Good air quality can be found along the coast.

The return of low pressure will change things up this weekend. “That is expected to bring, especially Sunday afternoon, a chance of isolated thunderstorms and showers for mountains, our deserts, our foothill communities and possibly even some valley areas," Kirk said.

Cooler temperatures should also return by Monday and continue into at least midweek.