Introduction to SoCal’s Mini Heat Wave
The latest heat wave that swept the Southern California region will peak Wednesday, with temperatures going as high as 16 degrees above average, forecasters said.
Affected Areas
The Inland Empire as well as the Santa Clarita, San Fernando, San Gabriel Valleys are expected to sizzle with near-100-degree temperatures as a heat advisory will remain in effect through Friday 9 p.m.
Temperature Forecast
“When we get to the hottest temperatures in Riverside, we are forecasting 96 degrees, 16 degrees above normal,” NBC Los Angeles Meteorologist Belen de Leon said. “In Downtown LA, the forecast is 88 degrees. That’s 14 degrees above normal.”
Cooling Down
After the heat peak, temperatures will begin to come down Thursday and Friday, setting the stage for a pleasant Memorial Day weekend, de Leon said.
“In Van Nuys, we’ve got 96 degrees (Wednesday) and it’s still a hot one on Friday, but through Saturday, the numbers will come down even more to 81 degrees, so that’s a difference of 15 degrees,” the meteorologist said.
Fire Weather Watch
Before the cool-down, parts of Southern California, including San Joaquin Valley and Central Sierra Foothills, are under a fire weather watch through Thursday morning due to strong winds and low humidity.
Return of the Marine Layer
Onshore flow will increase Thursday and Friday, bringing a return of the marine layer by Friday and quickly bringing down temperatures to more normal levels. A "big cooling” is on tap for Saturday.
"This cooling will bring most coast/valley areas down to a few degrees below normal,” according to the NWS. "The strong onshore flow will bring gusty winds to the mountains, the Central Coast and the western Antelope Valley and foothills.”
Forecast for the Weekend
Forecasters said a slight bump up in temperatures is anticipated Sunday.
Conclusion
The mini heat wave that has been affecting Southern California will soon come to an end, with temperatures expected to return to normal levels by the weekend. The return of the marine layer and onshore flow will bring a welcome cool-down to the region, just in time for the Memorial Day weekend.
FAQs
Q: When will the heat wave peak?
A: The heat wave is expected to peak on Wednesday, with temperatures going as high as 16 degrees above average.
Q: Which areas will be most affected by the heat wave?
A: The Inland Empire, Santa Clarita, San Fernando, and San Gabriel Valleys are expected to experience near-100-degree temperatures.
Q: When can we expect the temperatures to cool down?
A: Temperatures will begin to come down on Thursday and Friday, with a significant cool-down expected on Saturday.
Q: Will there be any fire weather watches in effect?
A: Yes, parts of Southern California, including San Joaquin Valley and Central Sierra Foothills, are under a fire weather watch through Thursday morning due to strong winds and low humidity.
