A scorching heat wave continues to grip the Greater Los Angeles area, with record-breaking temperatures expected to persist and even intensify into the next week. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued advisories and warnings, highlighting the potential for a “historic, long-lasting and dangerous heat wave” that could be one of the most significant for March on record.
Key Highlights:
- Record-breaking temperatures are impacting Southern California, with many daily and monthly records already shattered.
- The heatwave is unusually long for March, with temperatures ranging from 15-25 degrees above normal.
- An extreme heat warning is in effect for many inland areas, with a heat advisory for coastal regions, urging residents to take precautions.
- Temperatures are forecast to remain elevated through the week, with Tuesday expected to be the hottest day in some areas.
- The NWS predicts a potential for even hotter conditions next week, describing it as a “large, long-lasting and dangerous heat wave.”
The Deep Dive
Unprecedented March Heat
Southern California is currently experiencing an extreme heat event that is shattering temperature records for the month of March. This is particularly unusual as high-pressure systems have significantly altered the typical winter forecast, driving temperatures 15 to 30 degrees above seasonal averages. Daily temperature records have been broken across the region, with some locations even surpassing all-time March records. The heatwave’s duration is also noteworthy, being described as unusually long and strong for this time of year.
Record Temperatures and Advisory Alerts
On Friday, March 13, 2026, several locations recorded significant heat. Long Beach Airport tied its 2007 record with a high of 92 degrees, while Camarillo set a new record of 93 degrees, surpassing its 2015 record. The NWS issued a heat advisory for the bulk of the Southland through 8 p.m. Friday, with temperatures expected to reach 90 to 100 degrees. By Tuesday, some forecasts predicted coastal areas could reach the mid-80s to lower-90s, with valley areas experiencing 95 to 102 degrees. An extreme heat warning is in effect for most inland areas and a heat advisory for coastal regions through Friday, with officials emphasizing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Health and Safety Concerns
The prolonged and intense heat poses significant risks of heat-related illnesses. The NWS has stressed the high risk for almost everyone, particularly those away from the coast, and urges the public to take extra precautions. These precautions include drinking plenty of water, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and seeking cool, air-conditioned environments. Cal/OSHA has also advised employers to take measures to protect workers from the heat, emphasizing the importance of shade, water, and rest breaks, especially for employees not yet acclimatized to high temperatures.
Looking Ahead: Intensifying Heat
The current heat wave is forecasted to continue through Sunday, with only minor cooling expected over the weekend. However, meteorologists predict that next week could be even hotter, with a “large, long-lasting and dangerous heat wave” anticipated. The NWS has issued an extreme heat watch from Monday through Friday for next week, warning of potentially “dangerously high” temperatures that could be 20 to 30 degrees above normal. Tuesday is expected to be the hottest day of the upcoming week in many areas.
FAQ: People Also Ask
What are the current temperature records in Los Angeles?
Several daily and monthly temperature records have been broken across Southern California during this heatwave. For instance, on March 13, 2026, Long Beach Airport tied its 2007 record at 92 degrees, and Camarillo set a new record of 93 degrees. Many other locations, including Downtown LA, LAX, Long Beach, Burbank, and Woodland Hills, have also seen their records shattered.
What precautions should be taken during this heatwave?
The National Weather Service and health officials are urging the public to take significant precautions. This includes staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, limiting strenuous outdoor activities, seeking out air-conditioned spaces, and never leaving young children or pets in a parked car. Employers are also advised to protect outdoor workers with adequate shade, water, and rest breaks.
When is the heatwave expected to end?
While there is a brief cooling trend expected over the weekend of March 15-16, 2026, the heatwave is predicted to intensify again at the start of the following week. The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat watch for the week of March 17-21, 2026, indicating that dangerously hot conditions are expected to continue, potentially making it one of the most significant March heat events on record.
