Southern California Battles Unprecedented Heat Only One Week Following Severe Winter Storm.
After enduring heavy downpours that resulted in floodwaters across parts of the city, the City of Angels is now seeing unseasonably warm weather for the end of February.
Record-Setting Temperatures
During the day Friday, the mercury soared to 33 degrees Celsius (91 Fahrenheit) in the city center, according to meteorologists. This easily surpasses the previous daily record for this date, which was 31 degrees Celsius (88 Fahrenheit) and was set in the previous year.
"Unusually high temperatures" were labeled on NWS maps for the region.
Public Health Alerts
Forecasters stated that Friday's heat posed an "increased danger for heat illness" for those at risk. Their recommendations included:
- Staying hydrated.
- Reducing outdoor activities during the peak heat of the day.
- Not leaving kids or animals unattended in a car.
A Sharp Shift
This dramatic increase in temperature follows closely after a powerful winter storm that struck the region last week. That system brought thunderstorms, high winds, and heavy snow to higher elevations, triggering evacuation orders for countless residents.
Unfortunately, the conditions also resulted in a massive avalanche in the Tahoe area, which left nine people dead from.
Temperatures Easing
The outlook suggests some relief is expected. Temperatures were expected to decrease to around 16 degrees Celsius (61 Fahrenheit) in downtown LA by late Friday.
Additional areas that hit 90°F featured Long Beach, Burbank, and Woodland Hills. Meanwhile, Oxnard, Westwood, Camarillo, and Santa Maria were expected to see the high 80s.
Over Saturday and Sunday, downtown Los Angeles can anticipate readings in the eighties, with mid-70s temperatures on tap for the week ahead.
