Mini Heat Wave To Scorch SoCal This Week, Temps Could Break Records

LOS ANGELES, CA — Southern California is about to trade its mild spring weather for a burst of early summer heat as temperatures climb sharply by the end of the week, ushering in a mini heat wave.

Some areas could see daytime highs approach — or even break — calendar records, which are the highest temperatures ever recorded on that specific date, according to the National Weather Service’s Tuesday forecast discussion.

A far-reaching ridge of high pressure is expected to build over California beginning Wednesday, bringing dry heat that will elevate fire danger.

Temperatures are expected to peak Friday, with highs likely reaching or exceeding 100 degrees in the deserts and warmest valleys. Along the coast, mornings and evenings will likely bring gray skies and fog, while inland areas are expected to stay clear, forecasters said.

Temperatures everywhere are expected to gradually increase throughout the week, with desert areas, like Palm Desert, reaching 106 degrees by Friday.

Highs in Los Angeles, San Diego and Orange counties are expected to reach the upper 70s to mid-80s, while temperatures in the Inland Empire and valleys could climb into the upper 90s to low 100s, weather experts said.

Later in the week, a slight chance of rain is forecast for some areas of the Southland, ABC7 reported.

Here's what Friday's peak temperatures could look like across the Southland:

• Los Angeles - 86 degrees
• Mission Viejo - 83 degrees
• Carlsbad - 73 degrees
• Santee - 85 degrees
• Banning - 97
• Palm Springs - 106

The heat wave will be felt statewide in what could become the first widespread heat outbreak of 2025, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.

An "extreme heat watch" has been issued in parts of Northern California, with temperatures expected to push up to the hottest day of the year so far.

“This is a little early to be experiencing these kinds of temperatures,” Fox40 meteorologist Dennis Shanahan said.

Weather experts are urging Californians to prepare for the heat wave by staying hydrated, taking breaks from the heat, wearing light clothing and shift outdoor activities away from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Temperatures are expected to ease up in both NorCal and SoCal by the weekend, but it is expected to remain warm in many areas. "Widespread cooling" is expected to bring relief by Sunday and Monday.