SoCal Braces For First Major Heatwave Of The Summer. Here's How Hot It's Going To Get

LOS ANGELES, CA — Temperatures are expected to rise significantly in the Southland this week, bringing the first widespread heatwave of the season, weather officials said.

The week's warmup is likely to trigger elevated fire risk and heat warnings for sensitive groups.

The warming trend begins Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.

The current cooling trend, driven by an upper-level low-pressure system off Northern California's coast, will diminish, ushering in a high-pressure system from Arizona and New Mexico.

Forecasters predict the heat wave will reach its peak on Wednesday and Thursday, with inland valleys experiencing temperatures between 95 to 103 degrees. Desert areas are expected to be even hotter, reaching between 100 and 105 degrees, while inland coastal regions, including downtown Los Angeles, will see highs approaching 90 degrees.

While temperatures are expected to be 5 to 10 degrees above normal, the likelihood of extreme heat — 10 to 15 degrees above typical averages — which would trigger extensive heat advisories or warnings, has decreased. Meteorologists express growing confidence in the current temperature forecast, advising residents to prepare accordingly for warmer conditions.

However, "moderate heat risk" is expected for most of the region, excluding the beaches.

The NWS warns that the heat wave will affect sensitive people such as outdoor workers or those without air conditioning or access to adequate hydration.

The dry hot spell could also bring fire weather concerns across all non-coastal areas and southwest Santa Barbara County.

"Dry and hot conditions will combine with some areas of gusty winds, including onshore winds across the interior and northerly Sundowner winds for SW Santa Barbara
County," the NWS said in its Monday forecast.

Starting Friday, weather officials say the high pressure system will gradually weaken, though it is likely to remain over the region through the weekend. Most areas will see the weather service's "HeatRisk" meter dropping to the Minor category Friday through the weekend, with temperatures reaching below normal by Saturday.

Exceptions include interior areas such as the Antelope Valley, the western San Fernando Valley, and the Cuyama Valley, which will remain well above normal with a moderate heat risk, officials said.

Meteorologists also note a developing signal for monsoon moisture moving into the area around the 16th of the month. They advise residents to stay alert and prepared for these weather changes.

The news comes as California's fire season begins. The latest big wildfire to make headlines is the Madre Fire, which has burned 80,603 acres since it ignited on Wednesday in San Luis Obispo County. It is just 35 percent contained, according to Cal Fire.