Downtown Los Angeles woke up shivering on Friday, February 20, 2026, under chilly skies and pockets of patchy frost, with temperatures dipping into the low 40s and a light north wind in the mix. Gardeners and pet owners were already hustling to cover tender plants and bring small animals indoors after some of the coldest overnight readings of the season in valley and coastal pockets.
What To Expect Today
Skies will turn mostly sunny today, with a high near 61°F and a light west-southwest breeze around 5 mph. Areas sitting under a Freeze Warning and Frost Advisories should stay cautious through the morning, as leftover cold air lingers. Temperatures will slide back into the low 40s again Friday night, but this looks to be the last truly chilly night before a slow warming trend kicks in over the weekend. For official details and the latest advisories, check NWS Los Angeles.
Weekend Warm-Up
The cool start gives way to a steady warm-up Saturday and Sunday as high pressure builds in. Highs are expected to reach about 68°F on Saturday and around 73°F on Sunday, then climb into the upper 70s by Monday. Forecasters say most locations will gain roughly 4–8 degrees each day over the weekend, so mornings stay crisp while afternoons turn noticeably milder. For context on the recent storm pattern behind this cool-then-warm whiplash, revisit our earlier coverage: multi-day soaker and fierce winds.
Coastal Surf And Boaters
Out at the coast, large swell will keep working over west-facing beaches through today. A High Surf Advisory and Beach Hazards Statement remain in effect, and minor coastal flooding is possible around times of high tide. Small Craft Advisories are posted for portions of the outer waters into the afternoon, so recreational boaters should use extra caution and check marine conditions closely before heading out. The National Weather Service is carrying detailed marine products and tide-related cautions.
Tips For Residents
Locals should continue to protect sensitive plants and move pets or livestock into sheltered spots overnight where possible, as some valley locations could see frost return tonight. Drivers should watch for colder pockets and cool bridges during early-morning commutes, when slick spots can sneak up on you. Beachgoers are urged to stay back from jetties and rocks while surf remains elevated. Keep phone alerts enabled and keep an eye on updates from NWS or NotifyLA if your plans hinge on the weather.
