Southern California Faces Historic High Temperatures Just Days After Severe Winter Storm.
In the wake of heavy downpours that resulted in floodwaters across sections of the city, LA is now grappling with unseasonably high weather for late February.
Record-Shattering Readings
On Friday midday, the temperature soared to 91°F (33°C) in central LA, as reported by the National Weather Service. This exceeds the old record for February 27th, which was eighty-eight degrees Fahrenheit and was recorded just last year.
"Exceptionally warm weather" were noted on NWS charts for the region.
Safety Alerts
Authorities cautioned that Friday's conditions posed an "higher threat for heat illness" for those at risk. Their recommendations suggested:
- Drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoiding outdoor activities during the peak heat of the day.
- Not leaving children or pets unattended in a hot car.
A Sharp Shift
This sudden spike in heat arrives just after a powerful winter storm that struck the area last week. That storm brought thunderstorms, high winds, and heavy snow to the mountains, causing evacuation orders for many residents.
Tragically, the severe weather also resulted in a large avalanche in the Tahoe area, which left nine people dead from.
Forecast Ahead
The outlook suggests some relief will arrive. The heat were expected to drop to around 61°F (16°C) in the city by late Friday.
Several cities that reached 90°F were Burbank, Woodland Hills, and Long Beach. Meanwhile, Oxnard, Westwood, Camarillo, and Santa Maria were forecast to see the high 80s.
Over Saturday and Sunday, central LA can expect temperatures in the 80s, with mid-70s temperatures expected for the start of March.