Los Angeles Faces Record-Breaking Heat Only Days Following Severe Winter Weather.
In the wake of torrential rains that caused flooding across parts of the city, Los Angeles is now grappling with unusually high weather for the end of February.
Record-Shattering Temperatures
During the day Friday, the thermometer soared to 91°F (33°C) in the city center, as reported by the National Weather Service. This breaks the prior high for this date, which was 31 degrees Celsius (88 Fahrenheit) and was set in the previous year.
"Exceptionally warm weather" were labeled on forecast charts for the region.
Safety Advisories
Authorities stated that Friday's weather posed an "increased danger for heat illness" for those at risk. Their advice featured:
- Keeping well-hydrated.
- Limiting outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
- Ensuring you do not leave anyone unattended in a hot car.
A Sharp Reversal
This sudden spike in temperature comes on the heels of a massive winter storm that struck the area last week. That system unleashed high winds, thunderstorms, and significant snowfall to mountainous regions, leading to evacuation orders for countless residents.
Tragically, the severe weather also resulted in a massive avalanche in the Tahoe area, which resulted in nine fatalities.
Forecast Ahead
Looking ahead cooler conditions will arrive. The heat were predicted to fall to around 61°F (16°C) in downtown LA by overnight.
Other locales that reached the 90-degree mark were Woodland Hills, Long Beach, and Burbank. Additionally, Santa Maria, Oxnard, Camarillo, and Westwood were projected to reach the high 80s.
For the weekend, downtown LA can see weather in the eighties, with a further cooldown on tap for the following week.