Unusual “Heat Wave” to Push Temperatures Near 90° Next Week

An unseasonal late February warming trend is set to bring near-record temperatures to Pasadena and surrounding areas, with forecasters predicting highs reaching 88° degrees by mid-week, the National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard office said today.

The warm spell, driven by building high pressure and offshore wind patterns ranking in the 97th percentile for this time of year, is expected to peak Tuesday and Wednesday.

Current conditions show temperatures Friday will reach the mid-70s under sunny skies.

While recent rains have helped minimize fire concerns, officials noted humidity levels will remain relatively low during this warm spell.

The detailed forecast shows a steady climb in temperatures: Friday reaching 79 degrees, Saturday also near 79, and Sunday hitting 81. Overnight lows will range from 50 to 57 degrees through the period. By Wednesday, temperatures could reach 88 degrees, with Thursday showing a slight cooling to 82.

The Weather Service has issued Wind Advisories for nearby mountain areas, where gusts could reach 45 mph in higher elevations, though no official advisories are currently in effect for Pasadena proper.

“Morning joggers and early risers should be prepared for mild temperatures even at daybreak,” forecasters said, adding that Sunday will be “particularly warm, making it an ideal day for park visits or outdoor dining.”

Here is the latest forecast for Pasadena from the National Weather Service as of 3:42 a.m. on Friday, February 21:

Friday: Sunny, with a high near 79. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming west in the afternoon.

Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 50. North northwest wind around 5 mph becoming northeast in the evening.

Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 79. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon.

Saturday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 52. Calm wind becoming north northeast around 5 mph.

Sunday: Sunny, with a high near 81.

Sunday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 55.

Monday: Sunny, with a high near 81.

Monday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 54.

Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 85.

Tuesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 57.

Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.

Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 57.

Thursday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.