LOS ANGELES, California — Southern California residents are set to get a welcome break from several days of intense summer heat as a noticeable cooldown arrives Friday, bringing temperatures down by as much as 10 to 12 degrees across parts of the region. While conditions will become more comfortable, forecasters say warm weather will persist, with isolated thunderstorms still possible in mountain and desert communities.
The cooler temperatures come after a prolonged stretch of above-average heat, prompting ABC7 to issue a Weather Change Alert for Friday as conditions begin returning closer to seasonal norms.
Temperatures Expected to Drop Across Southern California
Forecasters say most areas will experience a significant temperature drop heading into the weekend.
Los Angeles and Orange counties are expected to see highs around 84 degrees and lows near 66 degrees on Friday, with similar weather continuing through the weekend. The valleys and Inland Empire will remain warmer, reaching highs near 94 degrees, while beach communities will enjoy milder conditions with highs around 77 degrees.
“Temperatures will drop about 10 to 12 degrees in some areas,” forecasters said, marking a noticeable shift after days of extreme heat.
Thunderstorm Chances Continue in Mountains and Deserts
Despite the cooldown, weather conditions remain unsettled in parts of Southern California due to lingering subtropical moisture.
Mountain communities have a 30% chance of thunderstorms on Friday, with highs near 79 degrees and overnight lows around 50 degrees. Meteorologists say isolated storms could continue throughout the week, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours.
Desert communities are also expected to stay hot despite the cooling trend. High temperatures will reach 97 degrees, while Palm Springs could still climb to 105 degrees under mostly sunny skies.
Cooler Weekend Ahead, but Heat Isn’t Gone
Meteorologists say the cooling trend will continue through the weekend and into early next week before temperatures gradually begin rising again.
Although the worst of the recent heat is easing, officials remind residents that many inland communities will still experience hot afternoon temperatures. People spending time outdoors are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit strenuous activity during peak afternoon hours, and check on elderly neighbors and vulnerable family members.
With lingering humidity and the possibility of thunderstorms in higher elevations, residents are also urged to monitor local weather updates if traveling through mountain or desert areas.
What are your thoughts on Southern California’s changing summer weather? Are you looking forward to the cooler temperatures, or are you still preparing for more heat? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
