Sundowner winds and warm weather this week will elevate the risk of wildfires starting and spreading, according to National Weather Service officials. 

Meteorologist Robbie Munroe said the region can expect a “long-duration heat wave” through the weekend. Santa Barbara County will see hot days and warm evenings, which means less overnight relief than usual, he said. 

Daytime temperatures are expected to be in the 80s and 90s, with hotter weather in Ventura and Los Angeles counties.

The cities of Santa Barbara and Santa Maria have the potential to break heat records on Friday, each with existing records of 84 degrees. 

Santa Barbara and Goleta are expected to have highs in the 80s and low 90s this week. 

The Santa Maria and Lompoc valleys should have highs around 80 degrees this week. 

The Santa Ynez Valley is likely to reach the high 90s this week, with Solvang getting up to 97 degrees on Thursday, according to the latest forecast. 

The hot temperatures, low humidity and gusty sundowner winds will cause an elevated threat of fire, meteorologist Dave Gomberg said. The sundowners are expected Tuesday through Thursday with 40 to 45 mph gusts along the Gaviota Coast and San Marcos Pass. 

Santa Barbara County Fire’s latest fuel moisture check in early July showed a monthly average of 68%, above the 60% level that is considered critical. 

More people may head to the beach during the hot weather, and they should be aware of large surf and dangerous rip currents, forecasters said. 

The National Weather Service issued a beach hazards statement for northern Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo County. More advisories may be issued this week because of incoming southerly swells produced by Tropical Storm Elida, officials said.