Introduction to the Heat Wave
Record-breaking temperatures are possible late this week when already intense heat builds in Southern California, where parts of Los Angeles and other areas will be under extreme heat and red flag warnings. What authorities described as a severe heat event with days of temperatures in the upper 90s and well into the 100s will begin Wednesday and will continue through the weekend.
The Severity of the Heat
"This isn’t normal August heat," said NBCLA meteorologist Belen De Leon. "The normal high for this time of year in downtown Los Angeles is 84. Today, it’s going to be 96." And, there won’t be much relief from the extreme heat until next week. Heat illness risks usually reserved for desert areas will be more widespread, De Leon said. An extreme heat warning will be in place from 11 a.m. Thursday to 9 p.m. Saturday for most of the area.
Expected Temperatures
Thursday is expected to be the warmest day of the week, with record temperatures possible in downtown Los Angeles, while Woodland Hills could hit 109 degrees. Overnight lows will remain warm. Ariel Cohen, of the National Weather Service, said heat events like this are rare, happening about once every two to four years.
Fire Weather Warning
A red flag warning of critical fire danger took effect at 9 a.m. Wednesday and will remain in place through 9 p.m. Saturday in the Santa Clarita Valley, San Gabriel Mountains, Antelope Valley foothills and the Golden State (5) and Antelope Valley (14) freeway corridors. The Los Angeles Fire Department said it is monitoring the forecast and making necessary preparations to meet emergency demands during the heat wave. LAFD added Crew 4, which is a team made up of 26 specially trained personnel who will respond to wildfires within and around the city.
Gov. Gavin Newsom said the state had pre-deployed firefighting resources to Los Angeles County — totaling 10 fire engines, two water tenders, two bulldozers, one helicopter, two hand crews, three dispatchers and one Incident Management Team.
City Preparations
Mayor Karen Bass directed city personnel throughout Los Angeles to take all necessary steps to combat the conditions that will accompany the heat wave. "Ahead of expected high temperatures later this week, city departments are taking action to keep Angelenos safe," Bass said in a statement. "I encourage Angelenos to stay cool, stay hydrated, check on neighbors, and know that resources are available citywide to help keep you safe." Los Angeles city officials announced safety plans to beat the dangerous heat expected this week. Macy Jenkins reports for NBC4 at 4 p.m. on August 18, 2025.
Heat Health Safety
Los Angeles will also open augmented cooling centers throughout the city and hundreds of locations for relief from the heat. For locations and hours of operation, visit here. To stay safe during the heat wave, consider the following tips:
- Stay hydrated! The more hydrated you are, the more effective your body will be at keeping you cool. Drink water – not fizzy and alcoholic drinks, which will dehydrate you.
- Avoid exercise in the middle of the day. If you need to exercise outside, do it early in the morning when the temperature is lower.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored natural fabrics like cotton and linen, as these will help your skin breathe and let your sweat evaporate, cooling you down.
- We sweat around half a pint daily from both feet (and we wonder why they stink!), so if you can, wear sandals or flip-flops to let your foot sweat evaporate.
- Use a fan to circulate air from open windows. Keep your blinds or curtains drawn during the day, so your home doesn’t heat up while you’re out. Turn off big appliances and help prevent brown-outs!
- To cool down quickly, run your wrists under a cold tap or keep a water spray in the fridge for a quick cooling spritz to the face.
- Keep some wet wipes in your bag so you can freshen up your hands, face and neck if you get hot or clammy.
- Want to stay cool at night? One way is to wash your feet in cool water or take a cold shower before bedtime – especially if you get hot during the night or have hot sweats.
- To cool down in bed, try keeping your pillowcase or sheets in a plastic bag in the fridge during the day. Put them back on the bed at night. The fabric will stay cool when you’re trying to get to sleep.
- And bring your pets in and make sure they have shade and water.
- Be prepared for power outages and know where cooling centers are!
Conclusion
The heat wave expected to hit Los Angeles this week is a severe event that requires attention and preparation from residents. With record-breaking temperatures possible, it’s essential to take necessary precautions to stay cool and safe. By following the tips provided and staying informed about the heat wave, Angelenos can reduce their risk of heat-related illnesses and stay safe during this extreme heat event.
FAQs
Q: What are the expected temperatures during the heat wave?
A: Thursday is expected to be the warmest day of the week, with record temperatures possible in downtown Los Angeles, while Woodland Hills could hit 109 degrees.
Q: What are the risks associated with the heat wave?
A: Heat illness risks usually reserved for desert areas will be more widespread, and there is a risk of fast-moving flames due to the extreme heat and dry brush.
Q: What precautions can I take to stay safe during the heat wave?
A: Stay hydrated, avoid exercise in the middle of the day, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, and use fans to circulate air from open windows.
Q: Where can I find cooling centers and relief from the heat?
A: Los Angeles will open augmented cooling centers throughout the city and hundreds of locations for relief from the heat. For locations and hours of operation, visit here.
