As the weekend approaches, residents of Southern California are bracing for a scorching couple of days, with predictions indicating a significant uptick in temperatures across various regions. According to the National Weather Service in San Diego, coastal areas like San Diego County are expected to see high temperatures ranging from the lower to mid-70s. At the same time, the inland valleys could feel the heat with temperatures in the 90s to 102 degrees. Meanwhile, Orange County residents will experience a similar thermal pattern, with coastlines enjoying the mid to upper 70s and far inland areas heating up to the upper 80s.
However, the heatwave won't peak until Saturday, with temperatures for inland areas soaring about 5 degrees above the average. "Map of high temperatures for southern California for Saturday, August 10th, 2024. A few degrees warmer than Friday, around 5 degrees above average for inland areas," states the National Weather Service. The Inland Empire is expected to reach the mid-90s to 105, with the lower deserts hitting a sweltering 107 to 113 degrees. In addition, Saturday could foster conditions for thunderstorms in the afternoon, particularly in the mountainous regions, deserts, and far inland valleys.
Relief from the searing heat appears to be on the horizon, though. "Temperatures cooling to near normal, with highs a few degrees lower than Saturday," reads a statement provided by the National Weather Service. Following this subtle reprieve on Sunday, a continuing cooling trend is predicted for Monday and is expected to linger into next week.
The NWS's Area Forecast Discussion adds further context to this brief thermal narrative, highlighting an upper-level low over the Gulf of California and an inverted trough extending into the lower Colorado River Valley. Coupled with a small increase in precipitable water today, there is a 10-15 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms over the mountains this afternoon. Mariners and beachgoers need not fret over the weekend. However, "No hazardous marine conditions are expected through Monday," although elevated surf and a moderate to high risk of rip currents are anticipated for south-facing beaches of Orange County.
