LA Experiences Unprecedented High Temperatures Just Days Following Major Winter Weather.
Following a week of heavy downpours that caused flooding across sections of the city, LA is now seeing unseasonably hot weather for the end of February.
Record-Shattering Heat
By Friday afternoon, the temperature soared to 33 degrees Celsius (91 Fahrenheit) in downtown Los Angeles, as reported by weather officials. This breaks the old record for this date, which was 31 degrees Celsius (88 Fahrenheit) and was set in the previous year.
"Very warm conditions" were noted on NWS maps for the region.
Public Health Advisories
Authorities stated that Friday's heat posed an "elevated risk for heat illness" for vulnerable populations. Their recommendations suggested:
- Staying hydrated.
- Limiting outdoor activities during the afternoon hours of the day.
- Not leaving anyone unattended in a hot car.
A Dramatic Weather Swing
This sudden spike in heat arrives just after a powerful storm system that pummeled the region last week. That event brought thunderstorms, high winds, and heavy snow to the mountains, leading to evacuation orders for countless residents.
Sadly, the severe weather also resulted in a large avalanche in the Tahoe area, which left nine people dead from.
Temperatures Easing
Forecasters predict a cooldown is expected. Readings were expected to drop to around 16 degrees Celsius (61 Fahrenheit) in downtown LA by Friday night.
Several cities that experienced ninety degrees were Burbank, Woodland Hills, and Long Beach. Meanwhile, Westwood, Camarillo, Santa Maria, and Oxnard were forecast to reach the upper eighties.
For the weekend, central Los Angeles can anticipate weather in the 80s, with a further cooldown on tap for the week ahead.