A severe heatwave is set to impact San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties this week, extending into the weekend. Residents should brace for dangerously high temperatures, especially in inland areas. By mid-week, many regions away from the coast will experience highs between 95 to 105 degrees, with some interior valleys and foothills potentially reaching 105 to 115 degrees (Fact 1).
The heatwave will intensify on Tuesday as a high-pressure system moves in from the west. By Wednesday, the high-pressure system will push further into the state, significantly raising temperatures. The marine layer will shrink to about 600 feet, covering only near-shore areas in the morning (Fact 2).
Interior coastal areas could see highs in the 80s, valleys in the 90s, and some areas reaching 100 to 101 degrees. Interior and lower mountain regions will experience highs of 102 to 106 degrees (Fact 3).
The hottest days will likely be Friday and Saturday, with temperatures peaking ten to twenty degrees above normal. Excessive Heat Warnings and Watches will be in effect through the weekend and into Monday, July 8.
Additional concerns include coastal heat, where some interior coastal areas might need Heat Advisories as the marine layer becomes too shallow to provide significant cooling (Fact 4). Sundowner winds on the Santa Barbara south coast could bring near 100-degree temperatures during the early evening. The combination of extreme heat, low humidity, and potential winds increases the risk of wildfires, especially with July 4th being this week and people using fireworks.
Residents are urged to stay informed, take precautions to stay cool, and be aware of the health risks associated with extreme heat. The marine layer will provide minimal relief for coastal regions as temperatures continue to rise inland (Fact 5).
