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SoCal Heatwave: Temps Soar Amidst Extreme Warnings
25 Aug
Summary
- Southern California is experiencing a heatwave with advisories and extreme heat warnings.
- High pressure and warmer waters due to El Niño are causing the unusual heat.
- The National Weather Service offers tips to prepare for and stay safe during the heatwave.
Southern California and parts of the Central Valley are currently experiencing significant heat, with the National Weather Service issuing advisories and extreme heat warnings. These alerts are in effect across coastal and valley regions of Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties through late August.
The current heatwave is attributed to a high-pressure system over the area, compounded by warmer Pacific Ocean waters associated with the El Niño cycle. While not entirely out of the ordinary for this time of year, El Niño contributes to consistently high nighttime temperatures.
El Niño is part of a natural climate cycle known as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), characterized by warmer-than-average seawater in the tropical Pacific. The National Weather Service has provided comprehensive advice on preparing for the heatwave, staying cool, and recognizing and responding to heatstroke, emphasizing immediate cooling and medical attention.
Symptoms of heatstroke can include confusion and dizziness. In such emergencies, the weather service advises calling 911, moving the affected person to a cooler location, loosening clothing, and applying cool water or ice packs to aid in cooling.
