Heat Advisory Issued for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties

A heat advisory is in effect for much of Los Angeles and Ventura counties this week, with forecasters warning that widespread temperatures between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit could pose serious health risks—particularly for vulnerable residents. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued the advisory, which is effective from 10:00 AM PDT on March 12th until 8:00 PM PDT on March 13th. Forecasters anticipate above-normal temperatures continuing into next week, potentially requiring additional heat advisories or extreme heat warnings.

Affected Areas

The advisory covers a broad area, including:

• Malibu Coast
• Los Angeles County Beaches
• Palos Verdes Hills
• Los Angeles inland coast, including downtown Los Angeles
• Western and eastern Santa Monica Mountains
• Calabasas and Agoura Hills
• Western and eastern San Fernando Valley
• Santa Clarita Valley
• San Gabriel Valley
• Santa Susana Mountains
• Ventura County coasts and inland valleys

Cities included under the advisory are Santa Monica, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Van Nuys, Woodland Hills, Northridge, Chatsworth, Culver City, Long Beach, Torrance, Redondo Beach, Pomona, El Monte, Oxnard, Ventura, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, and Westlake Village.

High Risk for Sensitive Populations

The NWS states there is a high risk of heat illness for sensitive populations, including the very young, the elderly, those without air conditioning, and individuals engaged in strenuous outdoor activities. Los Angeles County Department of Public Health officials echo these concerns, urging residents to take precautions against heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and heat cramps.

“Heat causes more deaths in the U.S. Annually than floods, storms, and lightning combined,” said Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, Los Angeles County Health Officer. “Those most likely to receive ill during the heat include older adults, young children, outdoor workers, athletes, and individuals with chronic medical conditions. Remember, your safety and the safety of others is crucial during extreme heat conditions.”

Recognizing Heat-Related Illnesses

Anyone experiencing symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion—including dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, confusion, or loss of consciousness—should seek medical facilitate immediately. Immediate 911 response is warranted for a body temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, headache, a fast and strong pulse, and hot, red, dry, or damp skin.

Recommended Precautions

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even before feeling thirsty.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a hat or utilize an umbrella when outdoors.
• Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
• Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 when venturing outside.
• Limit strenuous activity to the early morning or evening hours.
• If you lack air conditioning, take cool showers or baths, use stoves and ovens less frequently, and seek out air-conditioned public spaces like libraries or shopping malls.
• Never leave children or pets alone in a vehicle, as car temperatures can rise to dangerous levels even with windows slightly open. If you see a child or pet alone in a car, call 911 immediately.

Cooling Centers Available

County and city partners have established cooling centers for residents without access to air conditioning. Locations can be found at ready.lacounty.gov/heat or by calling 211, available 24/7. The 211 service is also accessible online at 211la.org. Residents and business owners with access and functional needs can also call 211 for emergency preparedness information.

Additional Resources

For city-specific heat risk information, visit the NWS HeatRisk website at weather.gov. Up-to-date information is also available on the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s website or by following them on social media at @lapublichealth.