Los Angeles Faces Unprecedented High Temperatures Only One Week Following Severe Winter Weather.
Following a week of torrential rains that resulted in floodwaters across sections of the city, LA is now seeing unusually high weather for the end of February.
All-Time High Readings
On Friday midday, the mercury soared to 91°F (33°C) in central LA, as reported by meteorologists. This exceeds the prior high for this date, which was eighty-eight degrees Fahrenheit and was established in the previous year.
"Unusually high temperatures" were labeled on forecast graphics for the region.
Safety Alerts
The weather service issued a warning that Friday's conditions posed an "elevated risk for heat illness" for those at risk. Their advice included:
- Drinking plenty of fluids.
- Limiting outdoor activities during the afternoon hours of the day.
- Not leaving anyone unattended in a hot car.
A Dramatic Reversal
This sudden spike in mercury follows closely after a massive winter storm that pummeled the area earlier in the week. That system delivered thunderstorms, high winds, and heavy snow to mountainous regions, triggering flash flood warnings for many residents.
Tragically, the storm also resulted in a massive avalanche in the Lake Tahoe area, which resulted in nine fatalities.
Temperatures Easing
The outlook suggests some relief will arrive. The heat were expected to drop to around 16 degrees Celsius (61 Fahrenheit) in downtown LA by Friday night.
Several cities that experienced 90°F included Woodland Hills, Long Beach, and Burbank. Additionally, Santa Maria, Oxnard, Camarillo, and Westwood were expected to experience the high eighties.
In the coming days, central LA can see weather in the eighties, with a further cooldown on tap for the week ahead.
