San Diego

California Braces for Heat Wave with Inland Empire Temperatures Soaring Above 100°F, NWS Advises Caution

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Published on May 28, 2025
California Braces for Heat Wave with Inland Empire Temperatures Soaring Above 100°F, NWS Advises CautionSource: Luciof, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The National Weather Service in San Diego has announced a warming trend across California that is expected to result in significantly higher temperatures by the end of the week, particularly in the eastern areas of the Inland Empire. The forecast, published early Wednesday, advises residents to prepare for highs ranging from the lower 70s near the coast to potentially scorching temperatures in the 90s and even hitting around 100 in the Inland Empire by Friday. NWS San Diego's synopsis indicates "high pressure aloft over California will bring warming for Thursday and Friday with Friday high temperatures as much as 10 to 15 degrees above average for the Inland Empire."

Accompanying the heat wave, the forecast includes a prediction of an upper-level low pressure system that could draw tropical moisture northward, creating a chance of showers over the weekend. While looking ahead, it was noted by the NWS that there will be a cooling trend from Saturday through Tuesday, with high temperatures expected to drop significantly below average for the mountains. This prediction has been bolstered by a recent social media post from the NWS San Diego, seemingly confirming that "there is a high probability that high temperatures exceed 100°F for eastern portions of the Inland Empire on Friday." 

In the short term, today will mirror the near-seasonal temperatures experienced on Tuesday, with coastal low clouds in the morning. While the morning may start with cool weather, a distinct shift is on the horizon as we progress into the latter part of the week. Starting with partial clearings during the morning hours, these low clouds are anticipated to push ashore after midnight, suggesting a similar pattern for Thursday. Aviation forecasts from the NWS San Diego also expect "mostly clear skies and VFR conditions today and tonight," ensuring a favorable environment for air travel amid the temperature fluctuations.