Southern Californians are in for a weekend of chilly temperatures and maybe a bit of drizzle. However, all you summer lovers out there can rejoice because a rapid warmup is on the horizon. According to Mike Wofford, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard, a strong onshore flow and persistent marine layer will bring more May gray conditions to the Southland this weekend. Temperatures are expected to be about 10 to 15 degrees below normal, so you might want to grab a sweater.
There’s a chance of some overnight and early-morning drizzle on Saturday and Sunday, so don’t forget your umbrella. Temperatures will be lingering in the 60s across most of Los Angeles County on Saturday, but they will heat up slightly into the low 70s on Sunday. Wofford mentioned that there will probably be more sunshine on Sunday, and next week is going to be a different story. By Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, temperatures are going to soar, with the valleys possibly reaching close to 100 degrees. Records may be broken in some areas, so get ready for a heatwave like no other.
As the week progresses, temperatures along the coast will reach the mid- to high 70s, while inland areas will be even warmer. Downtown Los Angeles is expected to see temperatures up to 87 degrees, and Woodland Hills could hit a scorching 96 degrees by Thursday. Wofford emphasized that temperatures are going to be way above normal, so make sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. The National Weather Service’s Sacramento office even issued a fire weather watch for the Sacramento Valley and adjacent lower hills due to gusty winds and low humidity. While the fire risk may not be extreme, it’s essential to stay vigilant and be prepared for any potential wildfires.
In conclusion, as we head into the summer months, it looks like we’re in for a hot and potentially fiery season. Daniel Swain, a UCLA climate scientist, predicts that this summer could be one of the hottest in the last 20 years. Models show a high likelihood of above-average temperatures and below-average rainfall across California. So, stay cool, stay safe, and be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws our way in the coming months.
