Winter Heat Wave Emerges as California Temperatures Near 90 Degrees in Early March

Spring may not officially start until March 20, but California residents are experiencing Summer temperatures through Thursday and Friday.

Southern California's climate will be approximately 20 degrees warmer than normal for mid-March through Friday, according to the National Weather Service (obtained via Associated Press's Weather Service).

The hottest day around the Los Angeles area will be Thursday, with the mercury hitting 91 degrees (32.7 Celsius) shortly after noon, with potential temperatures of 95 degrees (35 Celsius) in the San Fernando Valley, according to Bryan Lewis, a meteorologist at the weather service’s office for Los Angeles. Average early-mid March temperatures typically sit around 70 (21 Celsius).

A sea breeze on Friday should cool temperatures on the West Coast, but inland areas will still be feeling the heat, according to these readings. The hotter weather is not just a one-off, with temperatures potentially over 90 (32 Celsius) on Monday around San Francisco and in the Sacramento area, with most of the state being subjected to a major heat wave — classified as weather over 10 degrees hotter than expected during the average climate.

However, fun in the sun, especially after a bleak winter freeze across the U.S., should be enjoyed with caution. Government officials opened cooling centers across the state since Thursday, and urged residents to drink a lot of water and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the daytime, when temperatures will be at their highest. Construction workers are being offered shade structures and hydration for those working amid the heatwave.

Los Angeles will be heating up, not just for the weather, but for the annual Academy Awards this Sunday. While temperatures are expected to cool off slightly as the weekend progresses, star-seekers and events staff involved with the Oscars should stay hydrated, dress smartly, and bring their best portable fans for the occasion.