LOS ANGELES — Morning temperatures across Southwest California are running unusually close to what’s typical for Florida this time of year, with the National Weather Service in Los Angeles noting the humid, warm conditions felt strikingly similar to the Sunshine State as of 7 a.m. Thursday. Forecasters say the risk for heat illness remains high today, with a thunderstorm or two also possible.

Side-by-Side Temperature Maps Show Southern California Running Florida-Warm

A 7 a.m. comparison released by the National Weather Service in Los Angeles shows morning temperatures across Southwest California, including areas near Los Angeles, Ontario, and the Antelope Valley, running in ranges similar to simultaneous readings across Florida, from Tampa to West Palm Beach. The side-by-side maps were shared specifically to illustrate just how unusually warm and muggy the morning felt across Southern California compared to its typical late-August pattern.

Why Muggy Mornings Like This Raise Heat Illness Concerns

Even before peak afternoon heat sets in, elevated overnight and morning humidity can make conditions feel more oppressive and raise the risk of heat-related illness earlier in the day than usual. Forecasters are pointing to this pattern as a key reason the heat illness risk remains high today, since muggy mornings often signal that the atmosphere won’t cool off as much overnight, compounding heat stress as temperatures climb through the afternoon.

No Formal Heat Alert Tied to Today’s Pattern Yet

As of this writing, this comparison reflects observed morning temperatures and general heat illness guidance rather than a formal heat advisory or warning. No specific heat alert products have been confirmed as part of this outlook. This article will be updated if the National Weather Service issues any heat-related products for the region.

How to Handle a Florida-Style Morning in Southern California

Through the day today:

• Seek air conditioned indoor spaces, especially during the warmest and most humid stretches
• Take it easy this afternoon, forecasters specifically recommend easing up on strenuous outdoor activity
• Stay hydrated throughout the day, even in the morning hours given the unusually muggy start

With a thunderstorm or two possible:

• Keep an eye on the sky if storms develop later today
• Move indoors quickly if thunder is heard nearby

An Unusual Feel for Late August in Southern California

The comparison underscores just how atypical Thursday’s morning felt for Southwest California, a region not usually associated with Florida-style humidity. With heat illness risk already elevated and a chance of afternoon thunderstorms layered on top, forecasters are encouraging residents to treat today with the same caution as a more traditional heat event.

For more coverage like this, check back for the latest severe weather updates.