RIVERSIDE, CA — An October heat wave continues across Southern California, with valley temperatures pushing above 104 degrees. Inland areas are running hotter than even Las Vegas and Phoenix during this stretch. Temperatures will stay considerably hot through the week before dropping below 90 degrees on October 10. Readings are then expected to fall into the 70s after October 11 or 12.
Inland Empire Leads the Heat With Temperatures Above 104 Degrees
The hottest temperatures are focused across the Inland Empire, where a reading of 104.1 degrees was shown near Corona. Riverside, Fontana, and surrounding communities are also seeing extreme heat for October.
Heat extends south and east toward Hemet and inland San Diego County, including Escondido, Valley Center, and Poway. These valley areas are among the warmest locations across the region this week.
Santa Ana, Mission Viejo, and Santa Clarita Also Face High Heat
Orange County’s inland areas, including Santa Ana and Mission Viejo, are also dealing with very hot conditions. Heat reaches toward San Clemente, though coastal areas are slightly cooler than inland valleys.
To the north, Santa Clarita and areas near Palmdale and Lancaster are also seeing high temperatures. Heat continues into the southern San Joaquin Valley near Bakersfield, Arvin, and Delano.
Paved Surfaces Can Feel 20 to 30 Degrees Hotter
Ground surfaces in paved parking lots and high-traffic areas can feel 20 to 30 degrees hotter than the air temperature. With air temperatures above 104 degrees, pavement can become dangerously hot…