Heat wave moves into Southern California with record temperatures expected in some spots

A looming heat wave in Southern California could break records this week as temperatures are likely to climb well above 100 degrees in parts of the region.

The heat wave will bring temperatures roughly 12 to 14 degrees above average in northern Orange County. Several cities, including Brea and Fullerton, may hit triple-digits on Friday. Anaheim is forecast to be 101 degrees that day, nearing its previous daily heat record of 105 back in 2020, NWS meteorologist Philip Gonsalves said.

“These temperatures are well above seasonal averages,” he added.

In the Inland Empire, record heat is also possibe, with Riverside and Lake Elsinore seeing some of the hottest weather. Lake Elsinore, which had a daily heat record of 117 in 2020, is projected to be 112 degrees on Friday,

A majority of Los Angeles County will be under an excessive heat warning Wednesday, except for coastal areas. Roughly 105 to 115 degrees is projected for the western San Fernando Valley on Thursday and Friday, and between 100 to 106 in the San Gabriel Valley.

Downtown Los Angeles may reach a high temperature of 99 to 100 degrees on those days, NWS meteorologist Rose Schonfeld said. The lowest temperatures during the day are expected to remain mostly in the 70s, and range from the 80s to 90s in areas with higher elevation.

“Even overnight relief will be pretty minimal from the heat,” Schonfeld said.

Folks are encouraged to take the usual heat precautions by avoiding outdoor activities during the peak heat of the day, drink water, and never leave pets, children, or the elderly inside a vehicle — even with the windows rolled down.

The weather will slowly start to cool off over the weekend before returning to near normal temperatures next Monday.