Extreme Heat Warning Issued for Southern California
An extreme heat warning has been issued for portions of Southern California, including the 5 Freeway corridor north of Los Angeles, from Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 10 a.m. Until Friday, March 20, 2026, at 8 p.m. The National Weather Service (NWS) Los Angeles/Oxnard CA warns of dangerously hot conditions, with temperatures expected to reach between 96 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Affected Areas
The warning encompasses a wide range of locations, including:
- 5 Freeway corridor near Santa Clarita
- Santa Clarita Valley
- Santa Lucia Mountains
- San Luis Obispo County Mountains
- Santa Ynez Mountains (Western and Eastern Ranges)
- Santa Barbara County Interior Mountains
- Lake Casitas
- Ojai Valley
- Central Ventura County Valleys
- Los Angeles County Inland Coast, including Downtown Los Angeles
- Western and Eastern Santa Monica Mountains Recreational areas
- Calabasas/Agoura Hills
- San Fernando Valley
- Southeastern Ventura County Valleys
- Santa Susana Mountains
- Southern Ventura County Mountains
- Western San Gabriel Mountains/Highway 14 Corridor
- Eastern San Gabriel Mountains
- San Gabriel Valley
Heat Risk and Safety Recommendations
The NWS emphasizes a high risk of dangerous heat illness for everyone, particularly the incredibly young, the elderly, those without air conditioning and individuals engaged in outdoor activities. Residents are advised to take the following precautions:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids frequently.
- Seek Shelter: Stay indoors in air-conditioned environments.
- Check on Others: Monitor the well-being of relatives and neighbors.
- Child and Pet Safety: Never exit children or pets unattended in vehicles.
- Exercise Caution Outdoors: If outdoor work or recreation is necessary, take extra safety measures.
- Optimal Timing: Schedule strenuous activities for early morning or evening hours.
- Recognize Warning Signs: Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- Appropriate Clothing: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting attire.
Emergency Alerts and Resources
For “considerable or catastrophic” hazards, emergency alerts will be sent to enabled mobile phones. Residents can sign up for county alert systems and monitor agency social media for less critical risk updates:
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas for those working outdoors. If someone exhibits signs of heat-related illness, move them to a cool, shaded location and dial 911 in case of an emergency.
Source: National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard CA
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