SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA — Unseasonably warm air pushed across Southern California on February 24, sending afternoon temperatures soaring well above normal for late winter and bringing some communities close to the 90-degree mark. The latest forecast map from the National Weather Service San Diego shows widespread 70s and 80s stretching from the coast to the deserts.
While much of the country remains in winter mode, Southern California residents experienced conditions that felt more like late spring. Forecasters even noted that the weather may feel “too nice” for February, highlighting just how unusual the warmth has become.
Desert Communities Lead the Heat Surge
The most dramatic warmth was concentrated across the Inland Empire and desert regions, where several cities approached record territory. Palm Springs reached 88 degrees, while nearby Thermal climbed to 89 degrees. El Centro and Ocotillo also topped out at 89 degrees, placing them among the hottest locations in the region.
Further north, Ludlow and Means Lake each reported highs near 83 degrees, reinforcing the pattern of widespread desert warmth. Even elevated desert communities like Yucca Valley and Joshua Tree National Park saw temperatures in the upper 70s…