San Diego, CA – A surge of early-season heat could push temperatures close to 100 degrees across inland Southern California by Thursday morning, creating health risks for millions of residents and outdoor workers through Friday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in San Diego, a Heat Advisory will take effect at 10 a.m. Thursday and remain in place until 8 p.m. Friday for much of Orange County, inland San Diego County, and the Inland Empire. Inland valleys including Riverside, San Bernardino, Ontario, and Rancho Cucamonga could reach 93 to 98 degrees, while coastal areas such as Oceanside, Huntington Beach, and Encinitas may climb into the 86 to 92 degree range.
Cities including Anaheim, Irvine, Santa Ana, Corona, and Moreno Valley could experience prolonged afternoon heat, especially in areas away from the ocean breeze. The warm spell also extends into Escondido, El Cajon, and Poway, where valley locations tend to heat up faster during strong high-pressure events.
Health officials warn that temperatures approaching the upper 90s can quickly lead to heat exhaustion, especially for children, older adults, and people working outdoors. Residents are urged to drink water frequently, stay in air-conditioned buildings during peak afternoon heat, and check on neighbors who may lack cooling.
The unusual March warmth is expected to linger into the weekend, and additional advisories may be issued if temperatures remain elevated across Southern California.
