Humidity, scorching heat drive temperatures well above normal across Southern California
The sweltering heat and humidity will remain in Southern California through Thursday, with temperatures well above average.
The National Weather Service says even though conditions will be cooler on Thursday, it will not be enough of a change to prevent heat-related danger. The increased onshore flow will create about a 4- to 8-degree difference between the coasts and valleys. Inland and mountain communities will likely have a degree or two of warming.
Triple-digit temperatures broke records across several Southland communities on Wednesday and the NWS says overall, maximum temperatures will still remain 10 to 15 degrees above normal. There will be little to no overnight relief, with most overnight lows remaining in the 70s and 80s for many locations.
Extreme heat warnings will remain in effect for much of the region until 8 p.m. Thursday.
The humidity is one of the main things contributing to the heat discomfort. CBS LA meteorologists say that the humidity is what is driving up the "feels like temperatures." On Wednesday, in downtown LA it was 105 degrees at 2 p.m., but it felt like 110 degrees.
Peak heat index on Wednesday:
- Mar Vista: 100 degrees at 11:30 a.m., but it felt like 107
- Santa Ana: 107 degrees at 1:30 p.m., but it felt like 117
- San Clemente: 98 degrees at 2:30 p.m., but it felt like 107
- West Hollywood: 101 degrees at 2 p.m., but it felt like 106
- Grenada Hills: 108 degrees at 1:45 p.m., but it felt like 117
The high moisture stops sweat from evaporating, which usually helps the body cool down. This traps body heat and raises the risk of heat exhaustion and stroke.
People are reminded to never leave children or pets in unattended vehicles. The temperature inside a vehicle could become lethal within minutes.
Humidity levels are expected to drop by Friday, and conditions are expected to level out a bit with close-to-normal temperatures on Saturday.
