Los Angeles/ Weather & Environment

Downtown LA Braces as Triple-Digit Heat Wave Bakes City Through Friday

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Published on August 25, 2026
Downtown LA Braces as Triple-Digit Heat Wave Bakes City Through FridaySource: Unsplash/Cedric Letsch

Downtown Los Angeles is heading into a dangerous stretch of heat, with temperatures climbing from around 70 degrees early Tuesday to nearly 100 by afternoon. The heat index could reach 107, and the region’s hottest conditions are still ahead.

Dangerous Heat Peaks Wednesday

The National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard office has an Extreme Heat Warning in effect from 10 a.m. Tuesday through 8 p.m. Friday for Downtown Los Angeles and much of the surrounding coast and inland areas. Tuesday’s high is forecast near 99, followed by 102 Wednesday and 101 Thursday, with heat index values as high as 111 Wednesday.

Afternoons should stay sunny to mostly sunny, with south to southwest winds generally between 5 and 10 mph. Overnight lows will only dip into the low to mid-70s through Friday, offering limited relief after sunset, while rain chances remain near zero.

Weekend Cooldown Finally Arrives

Friday remains hot near 100 degrees, but a more noticeable cooldown begins Saturday, when the high is expected to fall to 93. Sunday should reach about 89, followed by a milder Monday near 86.

Take Heat Precautions

Residents should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the afternoon, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid leaving children, older adults or pets in parked vehicles. The City of Los Angeles advises residents who need relief to use air-conditioned public spaces, including libraries during regular hours, and to call 311 in the city or 211 in Los Angeles County for cooling-center information.