Southern California is experiencing an unseasonable winter heat wave, with temperatures expected to reach the mid-90s around Los Angeles. The National Weather Service reports that Thursday and Friday will be about 20 degrees warmer than normal for mid-March, increasing the risk of heat illness. Officials are urging residents to drink plenty of water and avoid outdoor activities during the day.
The heat wave is caused by a combination of high pressure and a lack of cooling winds from the Pacific Ocean, according to meteorologist Bryan Lewis. 'The nation’s air conditioner, as we like to call it, is essentially shut off right now,' Lewis said. He added that several temperature records across Los Angeles County are likely to be tied or broken.
Thursday is expected to be the hottest day, with downtown Los Angeles potentially reaching 93°F (33.8°C) and the San Fernando Valley hitting 95°F (35°C). Typical temperatures for this time of year are around 70°F (21°C). Cooling centres are being opened by city and county officials for those without air conditioning.
Outdoor workers are taking precautions. Junior Pineda of the International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers said workers have access to plenty of water, electrolyte packets, and shade structures. 'And there’s always shade structures, if guys start feeling a little light-headed and need to take a few minutes,' he said.
A sea breeze on Friday is expected to cool the coast slightly, but inland areas will remain hot. The heat wave should subside by Sunday, in time for the Oscars ceremony. Elsewhere in California, temperatures could top 90°F (32°C) around San Francisco and Sacramento starting next week.
