Summer Heat Wave Moves Into Southern California This Week

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Summer Heat Wave Moves Into Southern California This Week originally appeared on L.A. Mag.

Motorists drive west towards the setting sun on a warm afternoon in Long Beach. A warming trend is expected to raise temperatures. throughout Southern California through the weekend. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times via Getty

Southern California is gearing up for a major heat wave this week, with temperatures soaring above 100 degrees in many areas, and heightened wildfire dangers across parts of the region.

The National Weather Service (NWS) warns that the Inland Empire and other inland regions will experience the most extreme conditions, while coastal areas will see relatively milder — though still above average — temperatures.

“The most significant heat wave of the summer season, so far, is on the way middle to latter parts of this week and into next weekend, especially Wednesday through Saturday,” the NWS said.

The NWS issued fire weather watches for the mountains of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, the Antelope Valley foothills and the Santa Clarita Valley from Wednesday through Saturday. According to the NWS, the combination of “heat wave, low humidities, instability and critically dry fuels,” creates a heightened risk of large plume-dominated fires.

The Inland Empire will be most impacted. Riverside is expected to climb from a high of 89 degrees on Sunday to 101 degrees by Thursday and Friday. San Bernardino could reach 104 degrees at the end of the week, while Redlands may see a high of 103 degrees. Although forecasters hope for relief next week, temperatures will likely remain above seasonal averages.

Even Southern California's coastal and urban centers will feel the effects. Downtown Los Angeles is expected to climb from a high of 84 degrees on Monday to 90 degrees by Thursday and Friday. Anaheim, Long Beach, Pasadena, Torrance, West Covina and Whittier will all see steady rises in temperature — some expecting increases of more than 10-16 degrees over the week.

“These are well-above-normal temperatures that are going to be capable of causing heat stress,” said Ariel Cohen, an NWS meteorologist in Los Angeles. “Those susceptible to these conditions should start preparing now.”

Residents are urged to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor activity during peak heat, and be mindful of the elevated wildfire danger, particularly in the foothills and mountainous regions.

This story was originally reported by L.A. Mag on Aug 18, 2025, where it first appeared.

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