Southern California is experiencing a significant heatwave, with temperatures projected to reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in many areas. The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for most of the region, which is expected to remain in effect through Thursday evening.
Wednesday is anticipated to be the hottest day of the week. Valleys, mountains, and inland areas of the coastal plain could see temperatures ranging from the high 90s to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. The National Weather Service described the conditions as "roasty toasty" in these areas. The warning highlights the elevated risk of heat-related illnesses, urging residents to take precautions, stay hydrated, and seek cooler environments.
The intense heat flirted with some of the highest temperatures ever recorded in Downtown Los Angeles in recent years. According to data compiled by Current Results, some of the hottest days on record include 113°F on September 27, 2010, and 111°F on September 6, 2020.
Official records maintained by the Los Angeles Almanac indicate even higher temperatures in different months and locations. For instance, a record 129°F was reported in Beverly Hills on January 26, 2016. That same year, 2016, saw multiple all-time monthly high records broken across various months, including February, August, September, October, and November.
Temperatures in Los Angeles and Orange counties are forecast to reach a high of approximately 96 degrees Fahrenheit on Wednesday, with an overnight low of 69 degrees. Conditions are expected to improve by Friday, with high temperatures cooling down to the low-to-mid 80s and continuing through the weekend.