Heat wave in Southern California Sunday and Monday: How hot it will get

A strengthening ridge of high pressure is fueling a major heat wave in Southern California, delivering a sharp temperature spike just ahead of Mother’s Day weekend. Forecasters say the region will experience a dramatic warming trend as daytime highs climb 10 to 20 degrees above recent averages in many communities.

Heat wave in California spike just ahead of Mother’s Day Weekend

Intense heat wave in Southern California

The heat wave in Southern California will intensify through the weekend, bringing widespread sunshine and unusually hot conditions across Los Angeles, Orange County, inland valleys, mountains, and desert areas.

Los Angeles and Orange counties are expected to enjoy sunny skies Friday with highs near 79 degrees and overnight lows around 57.

Temperatures will continue rising through the weekend, with many neighborhoods reaching the mid- to upper 80s by Sunday.

In the valleys and Inland Empire, Friday temperatures are forecast to peak around 87 degrees before soaring into the 90s by Mother’s Day under clear, dry conditions.

Coastal communities will start Friday with patchy morning clouds followed by afternoon sunshine. Highs near the beaches should reach about 70 degrees before warming into the mid-70s during the weekend.

Mountain regions will also feel the warming trend, with highs around 74 degrees Friday and temperatures expected to climb into the low 80s early next week.

Desert locations will experience the hottest weather of all. Friday highs are expected near 90 degrees, while Palm Springs could reach 103 degrees.

Triple-digit temperatures are likely to persist through Sunday as the heat wave in Southern California peaks across desert communities.

7- Day Forecasts

Heat wave safety advice

As the heat wave in Southern California intensifies, residents are urged to take precautions to stay safe in dangerously hot conditions.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.

• Remain indoors whenever possible, especially in air-conditioned buildings, to avoid dangerous heat exposure.

• Check on relatives, neighbors, seniors, and anyone vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

• Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles. During the heat wave, car interiors can become deadly within minutes.

• Limit direct sun exposure and take extra precautions if working or spending time outdoors.

• Schedule strenuous activities for the early morning or evening when temperatures are lower.

• Wear lightweight, breathable, and loose-fitting clothing to help your body stay cool.

• Learn the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, including dizziness, nausea, confusion, and rapid heartbeat.

• OSHA recommends taking frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas for anyone working outdoors.

• If someone shows signs of heat-related illness, move them to a cool place immediately and seek medical help. Call 911 in emergencies.

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