Los Angeles is feeling the heat as Southern California is currently under a heat wave. So, how does this compare with the hottest day ever recorded in the city?
A heat warning remains in effect for many regions until 8 p.m. Thursday, with temperatures likely reaching above 100 degrees.
The National Weather Service reported this week that “the valley will be toasted.” They’ve advised residents to stay hydrated as the risk of heatstroke is high. “Hot conditions will persist through Thursday, peaking today. Make sure to find ways to keep cool,” they stated. Water is essential—whether it’s drinking or taking a bath for relief. Conditions should begin to ease by Friday.
Wednesday is expected to be the hottest day of the week. Warnings have been issued for inland valleys, mountains, and coastal plains, with temperatures anticipated to hit between 90 and 110 degrees on both Wednesday and Thursday.
The National Weather Service noted that “valleys, lower mountain regions, and backcountry areas will be sizzling, with highs in the range of 100 to 110 degrees.”
The forecasted temperatures could break recent records in downtown Los Angeles. Here are some notable high temperatures from recent years:
- September 27, 2010: 113°F (45°C)
- September 6, 2020: 111°F (44°C)
- July 6, 2018: 108°F (42°C)
- September 26, 2016: 104°F (40°C)
- October 24, 2017: 104°F (40°C)
- September 15, 2012: 103°F (39°C)
- September 16, 2014: 103°F (39°C)
- September 4, 2022: 103°F (39°C)
- September 9, 2015: 101°F (38°C)
- October 12, 2011: 99°F (37°C)
On Wednesday, highs in Los Angeles and Orange County are projected to reach 96 degrees, with a nighttime low around 69 degrees. By Friday, temperatures should drop to the low to mid-80s and remain cooler through the weekend.
As the heat wave unfolds, the risk of heat-related illnesses is increasingly concerning.
The LA Almanac notes various record temperatures in the region, including a record high of 129°F set in Beverly Hills on January 26, 2016. That year was quite extraordinary, as it saw monthly record highs across multiple months, including February, August, September, October, and November.
Record dates for Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
- Annual and September records (113°F): September 27, 2010
- June record (112°F): June 26, 1990
- July record (109°F): July 25, 1891
- August record (106°F): August 28, 1885
- October record (108°F): October 3, 1987
