As high pressure sits over the Rocky Mountains, the weather pattern sets up for a Santa Ana wind event and hot temperatures for much of Southern California.
Santa Ana Winds
With northeasterly winds funneling through the mountain passes and canyons of Southern California, Santa Ana winds are expected Thursday. In wind prone spots, wind gusts may reach up to 50 mph, especially in the more mountainous areas. By Friday, the winds will return back to normal speeds.
Hot Temperatures
As the northeasterly winds travels down slope of the mountains, a dry and hot air mass will impact much of Southern California into Friday. Temperatures Wednesday already challenged records in the area with highs reaching 90 degrees. Thursday will see the hottest weather of the week with major coastal cities such as Los Angeles and San Diego reaching the low 90s. Further inland, San Bernardino and Riverside counties will flirt with the century mark.
In Arizona, Phoenix and Tucson are expected to see unseasonably warm temperatures as well with highs in 90’s.
With dry, hot air and strong winds, chances of wild fires will increase for Southern California. The lack of rainfall and dry vegetation means these fires can quickly spread and become life threatening.
Friday High Temperatures
Despite decreased winds on Friday, the dry heat and fire risk will persist. Temperatures will slightly decrease by a few degrees for coastal California. However, Los Angeles will remain near 90 degrees on Friday and even warmer weather is expected inland.
By this weekend, residents in the southwest can expect a cool down as temperatures return back to normal.