Los Angeles, CA — Southern California is experiencing yet another burst of sunshine and unseasonably warm temperatures, with cities across the region climbing far above what’s typical for early December. Forecasters say this trend will continue through midweek, powered by a persistent ridge of high pressure and boosted by gusty Santa Ana winds.
Temperatures Soar Across the Region
By midday Tuesday, much of the region was already basking in summerlike warmth. According to KTLA meteorologist Kacey Montoya, conditions were unusually toasty even along the coast.
“Sunny skies, warm temperatures again today. We are all above average even at the beach,” Montoya reported.
Temperature snapshots around the region showed widespread mid-to-upper 70s and low 80s:
- Los Angeles — 80°F
- Van Nuys — 78°F
- Santa Ana — 77°F
- Riverside — 79°F
- Palm Springs — 81°F
Despite the heat, air quality across Southern California remained “good to moderate for everyone,” Montoya added.
High-Pressure Ridge Keeps Heat Locked In
The warm spell is being fueled by a stubborn high-pressure ridge sitting over the West Coast — and according to Montoya, “it doesn’t budge much.” As a result, the unusually high temperatures are expected to linger through at least midweek.
In the San Fernando Valley, temperatures are projected to reach 86°F today and 87°F Wednesday, which is roughly 20 degrees above normal for this time of year.
For early December, such warm readings are far outside seasonal averages, giving residents a taste of late-spring warmth instead of the typical mild winter pattern.
Gusty Santa Ana Winds Add to the Warm Pattern
Along with the heat, Santa Ana winds are sweeping across parts of the region, pushing drier air inland and contributing to the elevated temperatures. The Santa Clarita Valley and sections of Ventura County are experiencing winds of 30–35 mph, with the potential to reach 40 mph before tapering off.
Montoya noted that the region isn’t getting much of a break from the gusts:
“We don’t get that much of a break from these gusty winds,” she said, adding that relief isn’t expected until Thursday.
These winds—known for their speed, dryness, and warmth—often elevate fire weather concerns, although no major warnings have been issued as of Tuesday.
Cooling Expected Late Week, But No Big Chill
Southern Californians hoping for a weather shift will get a modest one toward the end of the week. A weak low-pressure system is forecast to drift closer to the West Coast by Friday, bringing slightly cooler temperatures and an increase in marine layer clouds.
However, meteorologists caution that this won’t be a dramatic cooldown. Highs are expected to drop into the low to mid-70s over the weekend — still warmer than average for December — before temperatures bounce back again early next week.
For now, residents can expect continued sunshine, elevated temperatures, and more bouts of gusty winds as Southern California enjoys a winter warm streak that feels more like early fall.
What’s Your Take on This December Heatwave?
Do you enjoy the warm winter weather, or are you ready for cooler temperatures?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
