Southern California to Experience Break from Extreme Heat Soon

Southern California is set to experience a significant cooling trend as onshore flow returns, according to the National Weather Service. While temperatures will still remain in the 90s to lower 100s in the mountains and warmer valleys, a decrease of up to 10 degrees is expected in the L.A. basin on Tuesday. Coastal areas may see temperatures dip into the 70s, with further cooling anticipated by Wednesday. By Thursday, temperatures are projected to settle below average, with highs in the 70s and 80s. Humidity levels throughout the week are expected to range from 10% to 20%, with a slight increase in moisture by Thursday due to a deepening marine layer. However, excessive heat warnings remain in effect for Los Angeles and Ventura counties, and the Inland Empire is predicted to be the warmest and driest area in the region. The weather service has also issued a red flag warning for the mountains around Angeles National Forest, indicating dangerous fire growth conditions. The extreme heat, combined with gusty winds, has led to several wildfires in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Orange counties, creating hazardous air quality conditions. An air quality alert has been issued due to increased fine particle pollution from wildfire smoke, affecting Orange County and the Inland Empire. Winds of 20 mph or stronger are expected to exacerbate fire conditions, pushing flames and smoke into nearby communities. As the region braces for a break from the heat, the ongoing fire risks and air quality concerns remain critical issues for residents. The National Weather Service emphasizes the importance of monitoring fire conditions and adhering to safety guidelines as the weather begins to change.