Fall may already be here on the calendar, but Southern California is still very much stuck in summer mode. The National Weather Service, part of NOAA, has issued a long-duration heat warning as an unusual October heat wave continues across California, sending temperatures well above seasonal averages and keeping parts of the region under elevated heat risk.
How long will the California heat wave last?
The current heat warnings were first issued ahead of the weekend and have since been extended through Thursday, October 8. According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat warnings remain in effect across the coast and valleys of L.A. and Ventura counties, while additional heat advisories cover other parts of SoCal.
ABC News reports that more than 35 million people are under heat alerts across the state, with temperatures expected to run as much as 20 degrees above normal for early October.
Here’s what to expect across the affected areas:
- Los Angeles and Ventura County coast: Highs could reach the 90s to around 100°F.
- Los Angeles and Ventura County valleys: Temperatures could climb as high as 106°F.
- Santa Barbara County: Heat warnings and advisories remain in effect across several coastal and inland areas.
- San Luis Obispo County: Heat Advisories are in effect, with temperatures ranging from around 90°F near the coast to about 103°F farther inland.
In L.A. specifically, the NWS forecast calls for temperatures around 100°F in the city Monday, with the Extreme Heat Warning remaining in place through Thursday evening.
And this isn’t necessarily the end of it: the NWS says very hot temperatures could continue into the second week of October, potentially requiring an extension of the current warning.
How to stay safe during the heat wave?
This kind of heat isn’t just uncomfortable, as prolonged exposure can increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, particularly for older adults, children, and people without reliable air conditioning.
- 💧 Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and watch for signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
- ❄️ Keep cool: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health recommends staying hydrated and keeping cool. The NWS also advises spending time in air-conditioned spaces and staying out of direct sunlight.
- 👵 Check on loved ones: Check on relatives and neighbors who may be more vulnerable to high temperatures.
- 🏃 Skip strenuous exercise: Avoid intense outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
- 🚗 Never leave children or pets in a parked car: Even for a short period, a parked car can become dangerously hot.
The heat is also keeping fire risk on the radar. CAL FIRE notes that warmer-than-normal conditions contribute to continued drying of vegetation, creating more favorable conditions for wildfire. With temperatures climbing into triple digits in some inland areas, it’s a good week to avoid anything that could accidentally spark a fire, especially near dry vegetation.
