Southern California Faces Unprecedented Heat Just Days After Major Winter Storm.
In the wake of heavy downpours that resulted in floodwaters across areas in the city, LA is now grappling with unusually warm conditions for late February.
Record-Setting Temperatures
On Friday midday, the mercury soared to 91°F (33°C) in downtown Los Angeles, per data from meteorologists. This exceeds the old record for this date, which was 88°F (31°C) and was set just last year.
"Exceptionally warm weather" were highlighted on official maps for the region.
Safety Alerts
Forecasters cautioned that Friday's heat posed an "higher threat for heat illness" for those at risk. Their recommendations included:
- Drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
- Not leaving children or pets unattended in a car.
A Sharp Reversal
This sudden spike in temperature follows closely after a intense storm system that battered the region earlier in the week. That event brought thunderstorms, high winds, and heavy snow to higher elevations, leading to flash flood warnings for many residents.
Sadly, the severe weather also triggered a deadly avalanche in the Lake Tahoe area, which left nine people dead from.
Weekend Outlook
Forecasters predict some relief will arrive. Temperatures were predicted to decrease to around 16 degrees Celsius (61 Fahrenheit) in downtown LA by Friday night.
Additional areas that experienced 90°F included Long Beach, Burbank, and Woodland Hills. Elsewhere, Oxnard, Westwood, Camarillo, and Santa Maria were expected to experience the high 80s.
In the coming days, central Los Angeles can anticipate temperatures in the 80s, with cooler weather likely for the following week.
