Southern California faces humid heat, rip currents as distant Tropical Storm Marie influences weather
A ridge of high pressure and moisture from Tropical Storm Marie will keep Southern California humid and hot through early next week, with dangerous surf conditions and heat advisories issued for multiple counties.
Forecasters expect persistent high humidity and extreme heat across Los Angeles County and surrounding areas through early next week as moisture from Tropical Storm Marie moves toward the region, while a ridge of high pressure builds from the east.
National Weather Service meteorologist Kristan Lund said the tropical moisture will combine with the ridge, leading to “dangerous rip currents with high surf and continued coastal flooding” on south-facing beaches through Tuesday.
Temperatures are projected to rise to the 90s along the coast and reach the low 100s inland, with the western San Fernando Valley and Woodland Hills expected to hit 105 degrees. Coastal areas may stay in the 80s due to offshore winds.
David Gomberg, lead meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Los Angeles-Oxnard, noted that the lingering moisture and heat will increase heat stress, prompting a heat advisory for Wednesday and Thursday that could expand to Ventura, Santa Clarita, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.
Nighttime temperatures are likely to remain in the 70s, with some foothill locations reaching the 80s. Climate scientist Daniel Swain warned that “feels-like” temperatures could approach 110 degrees, describing the upcoming conditions as “exceptional” for coastal Southern California.
The storm has also contributed to higher-than-usual tides, with forecasts of up to 7.2 feet on Tuesday, and public health officials advise against swimming through Wednesday due to potential bacterial contamination from recent rain.
Officials recommend that residents working or recreating outdoors stay hydrated, follow the forecast, and use cooling centers if needed.