As Southern California navigates through a heat wave, Los Angeles is bracing for a weekend marked by toasty temperatures amplified by unexpected tropical moisture.
On Friday, temperatures soared above 100 degrees in areas such as Woodland Hills and Chatsworth, with Downtown Los Angeles reporting a high of 96 degrees, surpassing the previous record of 95 degrees set in 1972, according to the National Weather Service.
This weekend, temperatures are projected to moderate slightly, with highs forecasted to settle in the mid-70s to low 80s along the coast and low 90s inland.
However, regions within the valleys, lower mountains, and deserts could still see temperatures climbing into the 90s and surpassing 100 degrees.
Heat advisories that have been in place across a broad region of Southern California are set to expire over the weekend.
As Tropical Storm Alvin continues to weaken off the southern Baja coast, it continues to direct tropical moisture towards Southern California.
This development brings with it the potential for showers and isolated thunderstorms in parts of Los Angeles County and possibly Ventura County, though forecasters caution that the rainfall amounts will likely be light and not every area will be affected.
Public health officials have long warned about the dangers associated with the rising temperatures.
In response, the Los Angeles County Public Health Department issued a heat advisory aimed specifically at residents in the western and eastern regions of the San Fernando Valley and Santa Clarita Valley.
Such advisories are particularly critical for sensitive groups, including older adults, children, and individuals with chronic health conditions, as temperatures are expected to peak at 100 degrees this weekend.
In regions along the Central Coast, temperatures reached high 90s on Friday, but a slight cooling trend is anticipated for Saturday, according to the National Weather Service’s Monterey Office.
Travelers heading to Cuyama Valley, southern Salinas Valley, or the mountainous areas of San Luis Obispo County have been cautioned about substantial heat risks.
Certain areas of Central California, including Merced, Madera, Fresno, and the Sierra foothills are expecting temperatures as high as 106 degrees on Saturday.
In Death Valley, an extreme heat warning remains active, with temperatures expected to exceed 115 degrees through Saturday night.
The National Weather Service in Reno has also issued a fire weather watch from Saturday morning through Sunday evening due to a combination of gusty winds, low humidity, and potential for dry lightning.
There is a 10% to 15% chance of isolated dry thunderstorms accompanied by gusty, erratic winds primarily affecting the Sierra region.
To protect yourself during this heat wave, health officials recommend staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
Whenever possible, individuals should seek refuge in air-conditioned spaces and be vigilant in checking on relatives and neighbors who may be at risk.
If outdoor activities are unavoidable, wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and using a hat or an umbrella for shade are strongly advised.
Officials further recommend avoiding outdoor activities during peak daylight hours and staying in shaded areas as much as possible.
Crucially, never leave pets or children unattended in vehicles, as interior temperatures can rise perilously, even with windows cracked.
For those lacking access to air conditioning or a cooler environment, Los Angeles County provides free resources such as cooling centers, splash pads, and community pools.
Residents are encouraged to locate nearby cooling centers utilizing the Find Relief From the Heat section available on the Ready L.A. County Website.
During extreme heat events, the incidence of heat-related illnesses, such as exhaustion and heatstroke, can rise significantly.
Recognizable symptoms include vomiting, dizziness, confusion, and hot, red, dry or damp skin.
If these symptoms occur, moving to a cooler environment and calling 9-1-1 for assistance is crucial.
image source from：https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-05-30/triple-digit-heat-prompts-heat-advisories-across-california
