News Summary
A heat wave with monsoonal characteristics is set to impact Southern California, leading to increased humidity and daytime highs approaching the 80s at the coast and high 90s inland. Moisture from Tropical Storm Mario is influencing the forecast, with potential thunderstorms expected by Tuesday. Light rain and localized flooding may follow later in the week. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities as dangerous fire conditions and rip currents may arise, emphasizing the unpredictability of Southern California’s weather patterns.
Los Angeles, California – A heat wave with monsoonal characteristics is set to impact Southern California during the final week of summer, following a cooler period that offered residents a brief escape from the relentless summer heat. Forecasts from the National Weather Service (NWS) indicate a three-day warming trend defined by increased humidity and daytime highs approaching the 80s along the coast, while inland regions may see temperatures soar into the high 90s and even triple digits.
The influx of humidity and soaring temperatures are primarily attributed to moisture associated with Tropical Storm Mario. Residents in areas like San Diego County can expect thunderstorms to begin as early as Tuesday afternoon. Given the complexity of the incoming weather patterns, the NWS warns of uncertainties surrounding precipitation levels and cloud coverage across the region.
Light rain is anticipated in numerous Southern California locations as early as Wednesday and Thursday, with the potential for brief heavy downpours and localized flooding. Currently, the forecast for Los Angeles on Monday indicates a high of 86 degrees, which is expected to rise to 91 degrees by Wednesday. Coastal areas, such as Carlsbad, are predicted to see temperatures increase from 74 degrees on Monday to 78 degrees by Wednesday, alongside possible thunderstorm activity.
Inland cities will experience even more extreme temperatures, with predictions including:
- Carlsbad: 78 degrees
- Santee: 90 degrees
- Banning: 93 degrees
- Temecula: 92 degrees
- Palm Desert: 101 degrees (103 degrees on Tuesday)
- Laguna Beach: 78 degrees
- Mission Viejo: 88 degrees (91 degrees on Tuesday)
- Long Beach: 86 degrees
- Los Angeles: 91 degrees
- Malibu: 80 degrees
- Altadena: 95 degrees
This anticipated heat wave follows a more intense heat event in the previous month, which led to hazardous fire conditions and health risks for many residents. The transition from the cooler, spring-like temperatures experienced in July to the impending heat serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable weather patterns characterizing this time of year in Southern California.
The NWS has expressed concerns about the increased likelihood of thunderstorms combined with elevated humidity throughout the week, which could lead to yet another round of dangerous fire conditions. Along with scattered thunderstorms, predictions suggest these storms may bring moisture, strong winds, and an increased risk of flooding as the week develops.
Beachgoers are also advised to remain vigilant as a warning for rip currents has been issued at south-facing beaches due to an incoming long-period south swell. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and ensure children and pets are not left unattended in vehicles.
Weather officials emphasize the importance of seeking shelter indoors upon hearing thunder, as the presence of lightning carries additional fire hazards. Rainfall is expected to manifest toward the middle and later part of the week, but the elevated humidity is projected to linger, complicating the weather dynamics even further.
As Southern California braces for this heat wave and the accompanying risks, residents are reminded to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being during this period of extreme weather.
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Additional Resources
- ABC7: Los Angeles Weather
- Google Search: Los Angeles Weather
- FOX LA: Extreme Heat and Thunderstorms
- Wikipedia: Climate of California
- KTLA: Thunder Rain in LA County
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- LA Times: Thunderstorms Threat
- Google News: California Weather Thunderstorms
- NBC Los Angeles: Heat and Thunderstorms
- Daily News: LA and OC Heat Wave

Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.