Los Angeles Faces Unprecedented High Temperatures Only Days After Severe Winter Storm.
Following a week of torrential rains that resulted in floodwaters across parts of the city, LA is now grappling with abnormally warm weather for this time of year.
Record-Shattering Temperatures
By Friday afternoon, the mercury reached 91°F (33°C) in central LA, according to weather officials. This easily surpasses the old record for this date, which was 31 degrees Celsius (88 Fahrenheit) and was established just last year.
"Unusually high temperatures" were highlighted on NWS graphics for the region.
Public Health Advisories
Authorities stated that Friday's heat posed an "higher threat for heat illness" for vulnerable populations. Their guidance featured:
- Keeping well-hydrated.
- Avoiding outdoor activities during the afternoon hours of the day.
- Never leaving kids or animals unattended in a car.
An Extreme Shift
This dramatic increase in mercury comes on the heels of a intense storm system that battered the area recently. That storm unleashed heavy snow, strong winds, and thunderstorms to the mountains, causing evacuation orders for many residents.
Tragically, the conditions also triggered a massive avalanche in the Tahoe area, which resulted in nine fatalities.
Temperatures Easing
Looking ahead some relief will arrive. Temperatures were forecast to drop to around sixty-one degrees Fahrenheit in downtown LA by late Friday.
Several cities that hit the 90-degree mark were Long Beach, Burbank, and Woodland Hills. Elsewhere, Westwood, Camarillo, Santa Maria, and Oxnard were expected to experience the upper eighties.
In the coming days, central Los Angeles can see readings in the eighties, with cooler weather expected for the week ahead.
