Intense Heatwave Grips Southern California, Triple-Digit Temperatures Expected Through Friday

The hottest days will be Thursday and Friday, driven by a strong high-pressure system and weakening onshore pressure gradientsPhoto byIvana CajinaonUnsplash

Southern California is facing a significant heatwave, with temperatures soaring into the triple digits across many areas. The National Weather Service reports that some of the hottest spots on Tuesday included Woodland Hills at 106°F, Chatsworth at 104°F, and Van Nuys at 103°F. This extreme heat is set to persist through at least Friday, with highs between 100°F and 113°F expected across valleys, foothills, lower mountains, and deserts.

The hottest days will be Thursday and Friday, driven by a strong high-pressure system and weakening onshore pressure gradients, which are expected to shift to a weak offshore flow. This pattern will cause temperatures to peak in areas like the western San Fernando Valley, Calabasas, and the interior Santa Monica Mountains, where Woodland Hills could reach around 113°F.

The heat will also extend to coastal areas, with inland portions of the coastal plain, including downtown Los Angeles, expected to hit around 100°F. The Santa Ynez range and adjacent foothills could experience similar temperatures, exacerbated by sundowner winds. Additionally, overnight lows in foothills and mountains may remain in the 80s or even reach 90°F, adding to the overall heat risk. Enhanced fire weather concerns are also in place due to the dry conditions and gusty winds in some areas.