California scorches: heatwave breaks records, relief days away

California’s Bay Area and Central Coast are bracing for a final day of extreme heat, the fifth day of an unprecedented March heatwave that has shattered temperature records across the state.

Record temperatures surge across california

The National Weather Service forecasts widespread highs in the 80s and 90s across much of the region outside immediate coastal areas on Friday. While a compressed marine layer will offer some respite to coastal communities, its reach inland will be limited.

The heat advisory, in place since Monday, is slated to expire Friday evening, with a cooling trend beginning Saturday. Most of the Bay Area and Central Coast will see highs in the 70s and 80s – still 10 to 15 degrees above average. Coastal areas will experience highs in the 60s, typical for this time of year.

This heatwave, extending from the late winter into early spring, has already broken a staggering number of records. Today alone, March 20th, saw 11 daily temperature records fall, along with two monthly records and one tie.

Several locations saw particularly extreme temperatures on Thursday. Napa reached a scorching 88 degrees, while Richmond, San Francisco, Redwood City, San Jose, and Salinas Airport all recorded 86, 86, 91, 85, and 91 degrees, respectively. Santa Rosa (92) and San Rafael (89) also set new monthly temperature records.

The sheer intensity of this heat underscores the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events. This isn't just a warm spell; it's a stark reminder of the changing climate and its immediate consequences.

The cooling trend starting Saturday won't return temperatures to normal. Expect a gradual return to average conditions, but the lingering effects of this heatwave will be felt for days.