LOS ANGELES, CA – Southern California is expected to remain under an unusually persistent stretch of heat into next week, while dangerous surf, rip currents and possible coastal flooding create added risks for beachgoers, forecasters said.
The National Weather Service has issued a High Surf Advisory through Saturday evening, a Beach Hazards Statement through Saturday afternoon and a Coastal Flood Advisory through early Saturday for portions of the Southern California coastline.
Temperatures are expected to rise over the next several days, with many inland communities forecast to reach between 95 and 105 degrees. Desert areas could see highs as high as 114 degrees, while coastal communities are expected to remain comparatively cooler.
Forecasters said the prolonged heat is being driven by a stubborn ridge of high pressure that has lingered over the region for weeks, keeping temperatures well above normal with little meaningful relief.
Information reviewed by Street People indicates the region has seen nearly four weeks of temperatures running roughly 10 to 15 degrees above average. While the heat may not break records in every area, officials said the duration of the hot pattern is making conditions more dangerous.
The same weather setup is also contributing to hazardous conditions along the coast. A large south swell generated by Hurricane Genevieve is expected to bring waves of 5 to 7 feet to many beaches, with larger surf possible in some areas.
Forecasters are warning of dangerous rip currents, sneaker waves and minor coastal flooding during high tide periods. Coastal crews in some areas have been preparing beaches with sand berms ahead of the incoming surf.
The ocean may appear inviting as temperatures climb, but officials are urging residents and visitors to use caution. Lifeguards have warned that strong surf and rip currents can quickly overwhelm swimmers, even when conditions appear manageable from shore.
Los Angeles County lifeguards performed nearly 2,000 ocean rescues over the weekend as large crowds headed to local beaches during the recent heat wave.
Officials are advising beachgoers to swim near an open lifeguard tower, keep children within close reach and avoid turning their backs on the ocean. Anyone caught in a rip current should remain calm, float and swim parallel to shore until they are out of the current.
Heat-related illness also remains a concern, especially for older adults, young children, outdoor workers, people without reliable air conditioning and those with underlying health conditions.
Residents are encouraged to drink plenty of water, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, wear lightweight clothing and check on neighbors or relatives who may be vulnerable.
Forecasters expect above-average temperatures to continue into next week, extending one of the region’s most persistent hot stretches of the summer.
