With dry, desiccating offshore winds developing in the San Francisco Bay Area during a severe early-autumn heat wave, officials warned Friday that the risk of wildfire sparks and spread is high. The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning just before 11 a.

More than 200 October record highs have been set and extreme temperatures are poised to persist for several more days.

An excessive heat warning has been extended for much of the Bay Area through late Friday night, as a late season heat wave continues to bring hot temperatures to the region, some of which have been record-breaking.

This weekend the thermometer is expected to soar past 100 degrees in many parts of California, just as it has for much of what has been a record-setting week.

An excessive heat warning will remain in place in the Bay Area through late Friday evening as hot temperatures continue to scorch the region.

The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning for the deserts and inland valley communities, including El Cajon Poway Santee, La Mesa, San Marcos and Escondido from 10 a.m. Tuesday through Monday.