A potentially historic March heat wave is gripping Southern California, with record temperatures already set in Camarillo and Oxnard and forecasters warning that highs could climb 15 to 30 degrees above normal in the days ahead.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), preliminary observations already show unusually high temperatures across parts of California. Communities across Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura counties remain under heat advisories.
Since Thursday, several locations have experienced temperatures well above typical March averages, according to the NWS.
The NWS reported that Camarillo reached 93 degrees, breaking the previous daily record of 89 degrees set in 2015. At Long Beach Airport, temperatures climbed to 92 degrees, tying the record set in 2007.
Meanwhile, Oxnard recorded 94 degrees, surpassing the previous record of 86 degrees set in 2015.
Here is a table of record high temperatures for next week. The hottest temps are expected Tue-Thu when monthly records for March could fall. #LAHeat #SoCal #CAwx pic.twitter.com/1OUQGkX9Nc
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) March 12, 2026
A heat advisory has also been issued for areas in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura counties, remaining in effect until 8 p.m. Friday.
Daytime temperatures are forecast to range from 85 to 95 degrees, well above the typical seasonal average for March.
Santa Barbara County also recorded its third-warmest winter on record, according to data from the National Centers for Environmental Information.
The period from December 2025 through January 2026 ranked among the warmest on record, according to federal climate data.
Officials warn the high temperatures could increase the risk of heat-related illness, particularly for young children, older adults, outdoor workers, and those without access to air conditioning.
NWS officials say the unusual weather pattern is being driven by a strong ridge of high pressure developing over the eastern Pacific.
The pattern is producing offshore winds and compressional warming, allowing temperatures to rise quickly across both coastal and inland communities.
Forecast models indicate atmospheric heights could reach 591 to 595 decameters, values rarely observed in March since records began in 1948.
According to the weather monitoring agency, values at that level could signal one of the strongest March heat events on record if the pattern holds.
Expect Hotter Temperatures Next Week
Forecasters expect a brief cooling on Saturday as onshore winds return, but much hotter conditions are likely next week as the high-pressure system strengthens again.
Coastal communities could see highs in the 80s and 90s, while inland valleys may reach the mid-90s or exceed 100 degrees.
Meteorologists say the heat wave is expected to peak from Tuesday through Thursday.
Nighttime temperatures are also expected to remain unusually warm, staying in the 60s or higher.
Extreme heat looking likely for #SoCal next week:
– MAJOR to EXTREME HEAT RISK likely next Tue-Thu
– High temperatures in the 90s to low 100s
– Very warm overnight low temperatures
– Daily and monthly temperature records at riskPrepare now for this upcoming heat event. #CAwx pic.twitter.com/0U0EUYOiNS
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) March 12, 2026
Authorities urge residents to stay hydrated and take precautions during the heat, including limiting strenuous outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., drinking plenty of fluids, and spending time in air-conditioned spaces.
Today is just the beginning of a long period of hot weather, with significant heat peaking next week. Now is the time to prepare! Make a plan to stay cooler by following these tips. #socal #caheat pic.twitter.com/2oDGBRsmCy
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) March 12, 2026
Additional heat advisories or excessive heat warnings could be issued next week if temperatures continue to climb.
Love it! So nice to finally have some hot weather for a change. Will be picking some lemons and limes off our trees today to make some tall cool drinks to have out by the pool. Most likely “con piquete” (splash of booze…for us, of course, that would be silver tequila).
Perhaps one should not access the Internet when inebriated and create drivel. My advice to those drinking is to have fun, but not annoy others when they are hammered.
What a fool.
It’s winter.
Let’s hope the local hikers know their limits and understand this warning.
Don’t eat the yellow snow.
Couldn’t help it, huh? Why are you so triggered by weather alerts and rescues?