Southern California is expected to get a break from a sweltering heat wave starting early next week, the National Weather Service said. But expect a sweltering weekend.
Some areas have seen daily temperatures nearly 20 degrees above normal for this time of year, said NWS meteorologist Chandler Price. In Riverside and San Bernadino, where temperatures reached 113 and 112 degrees, respectively, on Thursday, the normal high temperature in early September is a relatively mild 96 degrees.
The heat wave was caused by high atmospheric pressure in the region, a result of global seasonal trends rather than a direct trigger like a nearby storm. High pressure is quite persistent, Price explained, which explains why the heat wave persisted.
The lack of nighttime cooling also contributes to the intense daytime heat, said NWS meteorologist Carol Smith.
“If it gets cooler at night, it makes the day easier to start,” Smith said. “That’s not what we’re seeing.”
High temperatures in Orange County are typically tempered by cooler breezes coming in from the coast. However, the ocean warmed up as it does every year in late August. Inland Orange County is expected to see temperatures exceed 100 degrees by the end of this weekend, with no respite from the wind.
Los Angeles will see similar conditions this weekend. Downtown is expected to reach near 100 degrees, while the San Fernando Valley is forecasting a high of 106 degrees.
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Areas further inland have naturally felt the brunt of the heat this week, with several posting record highs. Indio set a new record of 121 degrees this week, one degree higher than the previous record set in 2020. Burbank tied an all-time high of 114 degrees Friday, meteorologist Carol Smith said, the fourth time that has happened since 1939.
Fortunately, there should be significant cooling next week.
“There is relief on the horizon,” Price said. “By Wednesday, we will be back to normal temperatures for this time of year, based on a 30-year climate average.”
Until the heat subsides, the risk of wildfires remains slightly higher. Dry air and intense heat create an ideal environment for them to grow and spread.
The weather service has issued several red flag warnings in recent days, and the Line Fire, which broke out around 6:30 p.m. Thursday in Highland, prompted evacuations and continued to burn Friday, spreading to 1,180 acres by Friday afternoon.
The Orange County Fire Authority is maintaining its normal staffing levels but is “ready to respond” to any wildfires, OCFA Capt. Than Nguyen said.
The biggest concern is to ensure that people in the area take the necessary precautions.
“We advise everyone to limit their outdoor activities and make sure they stay hydrated,” Nguyen said. “It seems simple enough, but often times people fail to hydrate properly and end up in a situation where they need help.”
Smith advised the public to take care of their four-legged friends. Pets should stay hydrated and indoors as much as possible, as should their owners. Even daily walks on the sidewalk can burn pets’ paws.
Price encourages people to take advantage of nearby cooling centers, located at libraries and community centers throughout Southern California.
“Make sure you protect your neighbors, especially the most vulnerable people who may not have air conditioning in their homes or access to clean water,” Price said. “And make sure you take care of yourself, too.”
Maximum temperatures expected for Saturday, September 7:
Anaheim: 99
Long Beach: 96
Downtown Los Angeles: 99
San Fernando Valley: 108
Mission Viejo: 99
Ontario: 107
Pasadena: 110
San Bernardino: 109
Temecula: 105
Torrance: 92
Red lands: 107
Riverside: 109
Whittier: 105
Source: https://www.weather.gov/
Originally published:
California Daily Newspapers
