Southern California Braces for Prolonged Heatwave and Santa Ana Winds

Southern California is facing a sustained period of elevated temperatures and strong Santa Ana winds, creating heightened fire risk and potential for heat-related illnesses. The heatwave, which began on Thursday, March 12, 2026, is expected to continue well into next week, with temperatures climbing significantly above seasonal averages.

Record-Breaking Temperatures and Heat Advisories

On Thursday, March 12, several areas of Southern California experienced record-breaking temperatures. Santa Ana reached 97°F, surpassing the previous record of 92°F set in 2007 National Weather Service. Long Beach tied its record high for the date, reaching 92°F, a temperature last seen in 2007 and the highest recorded since 1958 National Weather Service.

A heat advisory was issued for Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside counties, remaining in effect through Friday evening National Weather Service.

Weekend Forecast: Heat Persists with Gradual Cool Down

While a gradual cooldown is expected over the weekend, temperatures will remain above average. Orange County residents can anticipate temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s. The Inland Empire will see temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s on Saturday, rising to the low 90s to low 100s on Sunday. Los Angeles County will experience temperatures in the upper 70s along the coast and 80s in the valleys and interior on Saturday, increasing to the 80s near the coast and low 90s in the valleys on Sunday National Weather Service.

Next Week: Intensifying Heat

The heat is forecast to intensify next week. Los Angeles residents should prepare for temperatures in the low 100s in the valleys, upper 80s near the coast, and 90s in the interior from Tuesday through Thursday. Orange County will see coastal temperatures near 80°F, while inland areas will experience temperatures in the low to mid-90s. The Inland Empire is expected to reach the mid to high 90s, with some areas potentially reaching the low 100s National Weather Service.

Santa Ana Winds Add to the Risk

Compounding the heat, Southern California is also experiencing Santa Ana winds, with gusts up to 70 mph in mountain corridors and 55 mph in coastal and valley areas Yahoo News. These dry, offshore winds exacerbate the fire danger and can contribute to increased heat in some areas Los Angeles Times.

Safety Precautions

Authorities are urging residents to take precautions to protect themselves from the heat. Recommendations include staying hydrated, seeking shade, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and never leaving people or pets in parked cars National Weather Service. The National Weather Service emphasizes that even though it is March, heat exhaustion is a real possibility.

Looking Ahead

The prolonged heatwave and Santa Ana wind event pose significant challenges for Southern California. Residents should remain vigilant, heed safety warnings, and prepare for continued warm conditions throughout the coming week. The National Weather Service is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as needed.