It is officially feeling like the peak of summer this October.
A prolonged and potentially dangerous heat wave took hold across Southern California last week. It is currently sending temperatures soaring into the triple digits across Los Angeles County.
While the extreme heat began breaking daily records on October 2, the scorching conditions are still a reality today. In fact, Downtown Los Angeles just experienced its fourth consecutive day of 100-degree heat. This relentless weather extends the city’s October record yet again.
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for the coastal and valley areas of Los Angeles County.
Record-breaking temperatures across the county
The heat wave quickly exceeded initial expectations in and around the Downtown area. Highs reached a staggering 102 degrees last Friday afternoon. This matched the weekend forecast and shattered the previous daily record.
Other neighborhoods have been feeling the extreme heat, too. Woodland Hills reached 103 degrees and was expected to climb as high as 107.
Burbank hovered in the 100-to-102-degree range, while Long Beach also saw unexpectedly high temperatures.
Inland Orange County is baking as well. Highs are ranging from the mid-90s to near 100. Even overnight lows are staying unusually warm, sitting in the lower to mid-70s.
How much longer will the heat last?
Even though the heat wave started last week, we are still dealing with the intense temperatures today. A Next Weather Alert remains active through Thursday.
However, there is finally a light at the end of the tunnel. A significant cooldown is expected by Sunday.
Forecasters predict temperatures will drop by as much as 25 degrees. This will bring much-needed relief and 70-degree weather to the region. We might even see some rain!
How to stay safe and cool in LA
This relentless heat has a hazardous wearing-down effect on people. It is especially dangerous for young children and older adults.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is urging all residents to take this weather seriously.
Here is how you can stay safe during the final stretch of this heat wave:
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the afternoon.
- Check on vulnerable individuals, including older adults, pregnant people, and those who live alone.
- Locate a cooling center if you do not have air conditioning.
You can call 211 to find nearby splash pads and community pools. You can also call 311 to locate air-conditioned public buildings like libraries and recreation facilities.
If you or someone around you experiences symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion—such as dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, or passing out—seek medical help immediately.
