Intense heat in March hit Southern California, breaking decades-old temperature records. However, meteorologists warn that the worst is yet to come.
Temperatures have increased considerably since Monday and have already broken records. In Woodland Hills, temperatures soared to 97 degrees, surpassing the previous high of 94, recorded in 2007.
At Hollywood Burbank Airport, temperatures reached 92 degrees, breaking a record from 2004. In the Bay Area, temperatures reached 90 degrees in Redwood City, the hottest day in March since records were first kept there in 1930.
However, meteorologists say the temperature may even rise higher. Forecasters say temperatures could rise another five to seven degrees inland, with coastal areas experiencing a warming of up to 25 degrees compared to Monday, March 16.
It is expected that by Friday, March 20, the temperature could reach up to 98 degrees in Los Angeles, while San Bernardino could reach 105 degrees and Covina 103 degrees.
Forecasters expect some areas could even reach 100 degrees, about 35 degrees above normal in March.
The National Weather Service has issued extreme heat warnings in Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Bernardino and Riverside counties.
Extreme heat will be in effect until Friday night. The hot weather is particularly dangerous early in the season, as the public has not had a chance to acclimatize.
Residents are asked to stay home, stay hydrated and check on vulnerable people. For public assistance, there are open cooling centers in public libraries and community centers.
The heatwave is expected to peak on Tuesday, March 17 and Wednesday, March 18, before slowly subsiding.
