Inland Heatwave Persists Across Southern California, Coastal Fog Offers Relief

Several inland locations could see record-breaking temperatures today.Photo byIvana CajinaonUnsplash

Southern California is in the grip of a significant heatwave, with today expected to be the hottest day of the week for inland areas. The National Weather Service (NWS) has forecast temperatures well above seasonal averages, with some inland locations having a high probability of breaking daily heat records. Meanwhile, coastal areas will enjoy some relief thanks to a shallow marine layer that is keeping temperatures moderate and contributing to foggy conditions this morning.

In the latest Area Forecast Discussion, NWS meteorologists warn that the heat will continue through much of this week, with inland temperatures expected to remain 10-20 degrees above normal. Cooler conditions are on the way by next weekend, but even then, temperatures in the mountains and deserts will still be as much as 6 degrees above average.

Heat Records in Jeopardy

Several inland locations could see record-breaking temperatures today. According to NWS estimates, there’s a high probability of new records in places like Ramona and Borrego Springs. Current record temperatures and the chances of breaking them include:

• Lake Elsinore: 40% chance of breaking the 104°F record set in 1917.
• Ramona: 75% chance of surpassing the 98°F record set in 2017.
• Palm Springs: 65% chance of beating the 112°F record set in 1980.
• Borrego Springs: 98% chance of breaking the 108°F record set in 1991.

The NWS anticipates that Monday could also see record temperatures in some areas before a cooling trend begins on Tuesday.