Record-Setting SoCal Heat Wave to Intensify Next Week

Temperatures could reach up to 30 degrees above normal, raising concerns about heat-related illnesses.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 10:35pm

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A prolonged heat wave has been blanketing Southern California, with temperatures reaching the 80s and 90s and breaking some daily records on Friday. The heat wave is expected to continue through the weekend, with temperatures rising even further next week, potentially reaching up to 30 degrees above normal and posing a dangerous threat of heat-related illnesses, especially for vulnerable populations.

Why it matters

This early-season heat wave is highly unusual and concerning, as it could lead to a significant increase in heat-related health issues, especially for the young, elderly, and those without access to cooling systems. The extreme temperatures also raise concerns about the impact on workers, agriculture, and the overall strain on the region's infrastructure and resources.

The details

On Friday, temperatures reached 88 degrees at Los Angeles International Airport, breaking the daily record of 86 degrees set in 1994. UCLA also reached 89 degrees, topping the previous record of 87 degrees set in 2015. Temperatures were 15 to 25 degrees above normal across the region. A heat advisory remains in effect until 8 p.m. Friday, and the National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat watch for next week, warning of a 'historic, long and record-breaking March heat wave' with the potential for temperatures to reach 20 to 30 degrees above normal.

  • On Friday, temperatures reached record highs in the Southland.
  • The heat wave is expected to continue through the weekend, with some minor cooling on Saturday.
  • Temperatures are forecasted to rise again on Sunday and continue to climb through next week.
  • Monday's highs are expected to be in the 80s along the coast and mid-90s in the valleys.
  • Tuesday is likely to be the hottest day, with coastal areas ranging from the mid-80s to lower-90s and valley areas from 95 to 102 degrees.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency that monitors and forecasts weather conditions across the United States.

Cal/OSHA

The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health, which is responsible for enforcing workplace safety and health regulations in the state.

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What’s next

The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat watch that will be in effect from Monday through Friday, warning of a 'historic, long and record-breaking March heat wave' that could bring temperatures up to 30 degrees above normal.

The takeaway

This early-season heat wave in Southern California is highly unusual and concerning, as the extreme temperatures could lead to a significant increase in heat-related health issues, especially for vulnerable populations. Employers and local authorities will need to take proactive measures to protect workers and residents from the dangerous conditions.