California – Morning light spills across downtown streets as palm fronds barely move and the air feels crisp, not cold. Southern California wakes up calm and dry, a sharp contrast to the dangerous winter weather tightening its grip on much of the country.
According to the National Weather Service, Los Angeles and much of coastal Southern California remain locked in a quiet stretch of weather through the workweek. Highs climb from the upper 70s early to the mid-80s by midweek, with clear skies and light winds. Nights stay cool, dipping into the low- to mid-50s.
While California enjoys sunshine, conditions east of the Rockies are deteriorating quickly. Meteorologists are tracking an explosively strengthening coastal storm bringing heavy snow, high winds, and blizzard conditions across the Carolinas and parts of the Mid-Atlantic. Arctic air is plunging south behind the storm, pushing freezing temperatures deep into the Southeast, even toward South Florida.
The Great Lakes are now nearly 50% frozen, a signal of how entrenched this cold air mass has become. That ice coverage can reinforce cold downstream, keeping the Midwest and East locked in winter longer. Flash freezing remains a concern where daytime melting refreezes after sunset, especially from the Ohio Valley to New England early next week.
Back home, travel across Los Angeles County remains smooth for now. Dry roads and clear mornings favor commuters, hikers, and outdoor plans. Still, large temperature swings mean chilly early starts before fast warmups by afternoon. Keep layers handy, and stay hydrated as February warmth builds.
Nationally, winter alerts remain active through early week, with more advisories possible as systems line up along the East Coast. Traveling east? Check conditions often and allow extra time.
Five Day Outlook for Los Angeles, California
- Monday: Mostly sunny, highs near 75°F, light afternoon breeze
- Tuesday: Sunny and warmer, highs around 80°F
- Wednesday: Sunny, highs near 85°F
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, highs in the low-80s
- Friday: Mostly sunny, highs in the upper-70s
