Los Angeles is no stranger to warm weather, but this week’s forecast is bringing an unexpected February heatwave that has residents bracing for summer-like conditions in the middle of winter. A strong high-pressure system is settling over Southern California, driving temperatures well above normal and pushing the city into record-breaking territory.
As of Sunday night, the city is experiencing comfortable, clear conditions with a temperature of 57°F (14°C). However, this calm and cool weather won’t last long—by midweek, temperatures are set to skyrocket to a blistering 90°F (32°C), nearly 25 degrees higher than the seasonal average of 68°F (20°C).
What to Expect This Week
- Monday, February 24 – A pleasant and sunny day with a high of 77°F (25°C) and a nighttime low of 53°F (12°C). Enjoy the warmth while it’s still comfortable.
- Tuesday, February 25 – The heat starts ramping up with mostly sunny skies and a high of 82°F (28°C). Overnight lows remain mild at 58°F (14°C).
- Wednesday, February 26 – The peak of the heatwave! Temperatures soar to 90°F (32°C), making it feel more like midsummer than late winter. The evening will stay warm, with a low of 60°F (15°C).
- Thursday, February 27 – The intense heat lingers, though slightly reduced, with a high of 84°F (29°C). Expect a mix of sun and clouds.
- Friday, February 28 – The cooldown begins, with temperatures dropping to 73°F (23°C), but there’s also a slight chance of showers.
- Saturday, March 1 – Back to more typical February weather, with a high of 68°F (20°C) and sunny skies.
Why Is It So Hot in February?
Los Angeles’ sudden surge in temperatures is due to a strong high-pressure system building over the southwestern United States. This system blocks cooler ocean air from moving inland and allows for uninterrupted sunshine, which traps heat over the region.
These weather patterns are not uncommon in LA, but seeing 90°F temperatures in February is rare. Historically, heatwaves this intense have occurred only a handful of times during winter, and if the city officially hits 90°F, it could shatter previous records for the month.
What This Means for You
While many people will welcome the summer-like weather, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can be dangerous if proper precautions aren’t taken. Heatwaves in the winter months can catch people off guard, leading to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heatstroke.
- Stay Hydrated – The dry air and high temperatures can dehydrate you quickly, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Avoid Peak Sun Hours – Between 10 AM and 4 PM, the sun will be at its strongest. If you must be outside, wear sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight clothing.
- Limit Strenuous Outdoor Activities – While it may be tempting to hit the beach or go for a long run, avoid excessive physical exertion in extreme heat.
- Use Air Conditioning – If your home gets too warm, visit air-conditioned public spaces like malls, libraries, or coffee shops.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals – Elderly residents, children, and pets are at the highest risk during heatwaves. Ensure they have a cool place to stay.
When Will It Cool Down?
Fortunately, this heatwave won’t last forever. By Friday, a weather system moving in from the Pacific will bring cooler temperatures and possibly even some light showers. By Saturday, temperatures will return to the high 60s°F (around 20°C), a much more typical range for this time of year.
Final Thoughts: Get Ready for an Early Taste of Summer
Los Angeles is about to experience one of its hottest February weeks on record, with midweek temperatures soaring to 90°F. While this may feel like a welcome break from winter, heatwaves in unexpected months can be just as dangerous as summer heatwaves, so it’s important to stay prepared and take precautions.
