Unseasonably Hot Weather Hits Southern California

Temperatures expected to reach the mid-90s, well above normal for mid-March.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 8:42pm

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A winter heat wave is hitting Southern California, with forecasters predicting unseasonably hot weather including temperatures in the mid-90s around Los Angeles. The hot weather is expected to last through Thursday and Friday, tying or breaking several temperature records across LA County.

Why it matters

The extreme heat poses a higher risk for heat illness, especially for outdoor workers and those without access to air conditioning. Officials are urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during the daytime.

The details

The hot weather is being caused by a combination of high pressure and a lack of cooling winds from the Pacific Ocean. Temperatures are expected to reach 93 degrees in downtown LA and 95 degrees in the San Fernando Valley, around 20 degrees warmer than normal for this time of year. Cooling centers will be opened for residents without air conditioning, and outdoor workers will have access to water, electrolyte packets, and shade structures.

  • The hottest day is expected to be Thursday, March 12, 2026.
  • Temperatures will remain high through Friday, March 13, 2026.

The players

Bryan Lewis

A meteorologist at the National Weather Service's office for Los Angeles.

Junior Pineda

A representative with a local unit of the International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers.

Zack Marquez

A resident of LA's Koreatown neighborhood who uses a wheelchair.

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What they’re saying

“The nation's air conditioner, as we like to call it, is essentially shut off right now. We'll likely tie or break several temperature records all across LA County.”

— Bryan Lewis, Meteorologist (wbal.com)

“Gotta stay hydrated and stay in the shade.”

— Zack Marquez (wbal.com)

What’s next

A sea breeze on Friday should cool down the coast slightly, but inland areas will still swelter.

The takeaway

This heat wave highlights the growing challenge of extreme weather events driven by climate change, and the need for communities to be prepared with cooling centers, hydration resources, and other measures to protect vulnerable populations.