The most extreme days of Southern California’s extended heat wave have arrived, with temperatures rising to 107 degrees in the western San Fernando Valley and dangerous rip currents threatening beachgoers.
From Friday, July 31, to Sunday, August 2, an extreme heat warning has been issued by the National Weather Service, with heat advisories in place for coastal areas.
Forecasters estimate that Downtown Los Angeles is expected to reach the mid-90s, while areas between the coast and valleys will observe temperatures in the mid-80s to low 90s.
To make things worse, moist air from the monsoon has resulted in higher humidity values, adding to the stress already being caused. Dewpoints reaching 70 degrees or higher in a tropical fashion have been frequent in the coastal regions of Southern California.
According to the Weather Service, it would be best to complete any outdoor activity before 9 a.m. and after 7 p.m. in order to stay out of danger.
Individuals heading to the beach will have to take extra precautions. A High Surf Advisory is still in place until Saturday afternoon, due to a south swell created by Tropical Cyclone Genevieve west of Mexico. Dangerous rip currents have caused close to 2,000 ocean rescues by Los Angeles County lifeguards during the heatwaves.
Lifeguards are warning beachgoers to stay near open towers and ask about safe swimming areas. Temperature is expected to drop next week but will still remain 3 to 6 degrees above normal.
2026-07-31 22:57:00
