Downtown Los Angeles started Tuesday, February 24, 2026, on the mild side, with mostly clear skies and temperatures in the mid-50s. By this afternoon, sunshine is expected to drive highs to around 79°F, as a broad ridge of high pressure settles in and keeps cranking up the warmth through the week, with temperatures headed into the 80s and possibly the low 90s by Friday.
Today And Midweek Outlook
Forecasters expect sunny skies this afternoon with a high near 79°F, light east-southeast winds around 0–5 mph, and only about a 1–2% chance of measurable rain. The warming trend is set to build Wednesday and Thursday, with highs around 82°F on Wednesday and near 86°F on Thursday. Friday is projected to be the hottest day, with some inland spots flirting with 90°F. These timing and temperature ranges come from the National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard.
How This Compares To Earlier Warmups
This is the latest in a couple of unseasonably warm spells this month, following an early-February spike covered in our earlier winter warmup. The setup is similar, with an offshore ridge in control, but this week’s ridge is expected to peak later and hold through Friday, increasing the odds of near-record highs in some valley neighborhoods.
Coast And Marine Hazards
Along the coast, mornings should still bring pockets of patchy fog before about 10 AM, while offshore flow strengthens and sea breezes weaken. A High Surf Advisory remains in effect until 9 PM PST Tuesday, February 24, 2026, and Small Craft Advisories cover much of the outer and nearshore waters into the early hours of Thursday, February 26, with localized gale-force gusts possible near the Channel Islands. For the full rundown of active watches and marine timings, check the National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard.
Plan Ahead
If you will be outside during the hottest afternoon hours, plan for extra water and shade, and keep an eye on pets and vehicle interiors. Boaters and beachgoers should follow the marine advisories, steer clear of the surf during the High Surf Advisory window, and watch for lifeguard notices before heading into the water.
