Southern California

Winter Heat Wave Hits Southland Before Temperatures Drop

Another winter heat wave hit the Southland Monday, as fall-like Santa Ana conditions sent temperatures to near 90, and pushed thousands of people to the beaches this holiday weekend.

Santa Ana winds developed late Sunday, bringing a period of dry and hot weather and prompting a wind advisory for much of Southern California through the afternoon.

The National Weather Service said a ridge of high pressure would bring wind gusts up to 50 mph to the coastline below mountain canyons.

Residents took advantage of the record-breaking temperatures to flock to Southland beaches and parks on a summer-like day.

"The hot weather will bring an increased risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for the elderly," the weather service said. The bone dry air and low humidity also posed a high danger for fires in the Southland.

NBC4 meteorologist Crystal Egger said temperatures would start falling on Wednesday, with a chance of rain in the evening through Thursday, as an area of low pressure arrives. Daytime highs were expected to drop to the 60s by Thursday with areas of light rain.

City News Service contributed to this report.

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