Southern California Battles Record-Breaking Heat Just Days After Major Winter Storm.
Following a week of torrential rains that resulted in floodwaters across parts of the city, Los Angeles is now confronting unseasonably warm temperatures for late February.
Record-Setting Heat
During the day Friday, the thermometer climbed to 33 degrees Celsius (91 Fahrenheit) in the city center, as reported by the National Weather Service. This breaks the old record for February 27th, which was 88°F (31°C) and was recorded just last year.
"Very warm conditions" were labeled on forecast graphics for the region.
Safety Warnings
Forecasters stated that Friday's heat posed an "elevated risk for heat illness" for those at risk. Their guidance suggested:
- Keeping well-hydrated.
- Reducing outdoor activities during the afternoon hours of the day.
- Ensuring you do not leave children or pets unattended in a car.
An Extreme Weather Swing
This dramatic increase in heat comes on the heels of a powerful winter storm that pummeled the region earlier in the week. That event delivered thunderstorms, high winds, and heavy snow to the mountains, triggering evacuation orders for countless residents.
Unfortunately, the severe weather also resulted in a deadly avalanche in the Lake Tahoe area, which claimed the lives of.
Forecast Ahead
Forecasters predict cooler conditions will arrive. Readings were predicted to drop to around sixty-one degrees Fahrenheit in central Los Angeles by late Friday.
Several cities that experienced ninety degrees included Woodland Hills, Long Beach, and Burbank. Additionally, Santa Maria, Oxnard, Camarillo, and Westwood were forecast to experience the upper eighties.
Over Saturday and Sunday, downtown Los Angeles can expect readings in the 80s, with cooler weather likely for the start of March.
