Downtown L.A. woke up under a blanket of patchy coastal fog Wednesday morning, but that gray will not last long. By late morning the clouds give up, the sun takes over and temperatures race into the low to mid 90s. A multi-day run of hot and humid weather kicks off Wednesday, July 22, and with overnight lows stuck in the upper 60s, people without air conditioning can expect only marginal relief after dark.
Afternoon Heat, Sticky Nights
Forecasters expect the morning fog to thin out by about 11 a.m., clearing the way for mostly sunny skies and a high near 93°F on Wednesday, July 22. Thursday and Friday look similar, with temperatures holding steady or nudging a little warmer. South-southwest winds around 0 to 10 mph will do little to cool things down, and most neighborhoods are in for muggy nights with lows in the upper 60s to low 70s.
Heat Advisory In Effect
The National Weather Service has a Heat Advisory in place for the Los Angeles inland coast, including Downtown L.A., from 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 22, through 8 p.m. Monday, July 27. According to the National Weather Service, daytime highs commonly landing in the upper 80s to mid 90s, combined with warm and humid nights, raise the “risk for dangerous heat illness” for older adults, children and anyone without reliable cooling. Officials are pushing the basics: drink plenty of water, seek shade whenever possible and avoid heavy exertion during the hottest part of the day.
Where To Cool Off
The city is opening its usual playbook of cooling options, including public libraries, recreation centers and designated cooling centers for anyone who needs a break from the heat. Residents can call 3-1-1 or check local listings for the closest site and operating hours. For locations, hydration advice and transit connections to cooling centers, see the LA Emergency Management heat resources.
Beach, Boats And Morning Fog
Along the coast, that familiar morning fog will linger before burning off, but conditions on the water will be less friendly. Marine hazards are on the rise, with forecasters warning of Small Craft Advisories and a bump in south-swell energy later this week that could turn south-facing beaches hazardous. The National Weather Service advises staying off jetties, following lifeguard instructions and steering clear of strong rip currents.
Plan Ahead
To get through the stretch, try to schedule outdoor work or exercise in the early morning or later in the evening, bring water even on short errands and check in on neighbors who may not have air conditioning. And as always, never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for a few minutes. For background on how this sultry spell set up over Downtown, revisit our earlier coverage on heat alerts piling up.
