Los Angeles Battles Unprecedented Heat Only Days After Severe Winter Weather.
Following a week of heavy downpours that led to inundation across sections of the city, LA is now confronting unseasonably hot temperatures for late February.
All-Time High Readings
During the day Friday, the mercury soared to 33 degrees Celsius (91 Fahrenheit) in the city center, according to weather officials. This easily surpasses the prior high for this date, which was eighty-eight degrees Fahrenheit and was established in the previous year.
"Exceptionally warm weather" were labeled on forecast maps for the region.
Safety Advisories
Authorities stated that Friday's conditions posed an "higher threat for heat illness" for people sensitive to heat. Their guidance suggested:
- Keeping well-hydrated.
- Avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
- Never leaving kids or animals unattended in a hot car.
A Dramatic Reversal
This dramatic increase in mercury arrives just after a intense storm system that pummeled the state recently. That storm unleashed high winds, thunderstorms, and significant snowfall to higher elevations, causing evacuation orders for countless residents.
Tragically, the severe weather also resulted in a deadly avalanche in the Lake Tahoe area, which resulted in nine fatalities.
Temperatures Easing
Looking ahead some relief is expected. Temperatures were predicted to decrease to around 16 degrees Celsius (61 Fahrenheit) in downtown LA by Friday night.
Several cities that reached the 90-degree mark included Woodland Hills, Long Beach, and Burbank. Meanwhile, Santa Maria, Oxnard, Camarillo, and Westwood were forecast to experience the high eighties.
For the weekend, downtown LA can expect temperatures in the 80s, with cooler weather likely for the week ahead.
