A prolonged heat wave is expected to grip Pasadena and much of Southern California beginning Thursday, with temperatures soaring into the 90s and nearing record levels, according to the National Weather Service. Forecasters warn the warm temps will persist well into next week.
Temperatures Thursday are forecast to reach 94 degrees under clear skies, with light winds shifting from north in the morning to south-southwest by afternoon. The National Weather Service said the heat is driven by a strong ridge of high pressure offshore, producing conditions well above seasonal norms.
Friday will remain hot, with highs again near 94 degrees. Slight onshore winds may bring minimal cooling, but forecasters said it will not ease the heat threat. Saturday will see modest relief, with highs around 87 degrees.
The heat wave is expected to reintensify early next week.
Forecasters said highs could reach 98 degrees Tuesday, threatening daily and monthly records. Another round of widespread Heat Advisories is likely, with officials urging residents to take precautions.
No rain is forecast through March 26. Winds will remain mostly light, though occasional canyon gusts of 35 to 45 mph are possible in parts of Los Angeles County.
Pasadena residents are advised to limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and avoid leaving people or pets in vehicles. Homes without air conditioning may struggle to stay cool, forecasters noted.
The National Weather Service said the extreme heat could last through late March, with temperatures remaining 15 to 22 degrees above normal even after slight cooling later next week.
Here is the Pasadena forecast from the National Weather Service as of 3:01 a.m. Thursday:
Today: Sunny, with a high near 94. North wind around 5 mph becoming south southwest in the afternoon.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 63. West southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming south southeast around 5 mph.
Friday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 64. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Saturday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Saturday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 61.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 89.
Sunday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 61.
Monday: Sunny, with a high near 93.
Monday Night: Clear, with a low around 63.
Tuesday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 98.
Tuesday Night: Clear, with a low around 63.
Wednesday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 97.
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