Heatwave Record will Hit LA after July 4th

After the Fourth of July temperatures in Los Angeles valleys could reach Record-breaking heat between 105 to 112 degrees, according to forecasters. While along the coast the temperatures may reach the upper 80s.

Southern California is expected to hit waves of sweltering heat by the end of this week, bringing the potential for record-breaking temperatures, the National Weather Service said. Simultaneously parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties — such as the southern coast of Santa Barbara and the Interstate 5 corridor — could see gusty winds.

Significant weather impacts later this week include potential for record breaking triple digit heat, elevated to critical fire weather conditions, and high surf/strong rip currents.

“For downtown, the normal high for this time of year is around 82 degrees,” said Robbie Munroe, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard. “We’re forecasting record highs for both dates. The current record for Friday is currently 94, and for Saturday the current record is 96.”

The weather service warned of the potential for heat-related illness and said the very hot and dry conditions, coupled with gusty northerly winds, will increase the risk for large fires. A large south swell will likely lead to high surf and dangerous rip currents at the beach.

“For people who are looking to hit the beach or head over to Avalon or something like that, there will be extra concerns,” Munroe said.

Surf heights between 8 to 11 feet could hit south-facing beaches such as Port Hueneme, Zuma Beach, Cayucos, and areas near Long Beach, he added. Large sneaker waves will be possible Wednesday evening through Thursday morning.

“Fortunately, the Fourth of July is going to be mild in comparison,” Munroe said adding, “The region could see relief from the heat by Sunday.”