Photo: Shutterstock Southern California is preparing for an extended heatwave that is expected to begin Friday, October 2, and continue through at least Thursday, October 8, with the National Weather Service warning of a high risk for heat-related illness across much of the region.
The NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard office has issued an Extreme Heat Watch covering large parts of Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles counties. The watch is in effect from Friday through Thursday, with forecasters warning that the hot conditions could last even longer.
Los Angeles. Photo: NorthSky Films / Shutterstock.comHigh temperatures of 35° to 40° Celsius (95° to 105° Fahrenheit) are expected to be common across much of the region, including coastal areas. Some inland locations could climb above 105 degrees.
The forecast shows temperatures rising sharply from Thursday into Friday and Saturday. Los Angeles is expected to reach the mid-32s Celsius (90s Fahrenheit), while Burbank, Pasadena and Santa Clarita could approach or reach 38° Celsius (100° Fahrenheit). Palmdale could climb to around 39° Celsius (102° Fahrenheit), while Woodland Hills and other inland communities may see temperatures above 38° Celsius (100° Fahrenheit).
Coastal locations will also feel the heat. Long Beach could reach the upper 90s, while Santa Monica is forecast to rise into the mid-90s. Ventura and Santa Barbara will remain cooler but are still expected to see temperatures increase through the weekend.
Overnight temperatures are also expected to remain warm, giving residents less relief after sunset. The NWS noted that humidity should be lower than during some earlier heat events this year, but the length of the heatwave remains a concern.
The heat is also expected to increase wildfire danger. The NWS is warning of a high risk for large and fast-moving fires in valleys and mountain areas and is urging people to use extra caution with anything that could start a fire.
Residents are being encouraged to make plans before the heat arrives, including deciding where they can stay cool during the hottest parts of the day. The weather service also recommends checking on neighbors and loved ones who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat.
With the heat expected to persist for nearly a week, the NWS is urging people not to wait until temperatures peak to prepare. The current Extreme Heat Watch runs through October 8, although the agency says the hot weather could continue beyond that date.