Hot Labor Day weekend forecast

A heat wave is expected across the region through early next week, with widespread record-high temperatures expected Saturday and Sunday. Overnight low temperatures will be very warm through the weekend. There is a high risk of heat illness along with critical fire weather concerns. Hot weather will continue on Monday, with minor cooling through late next week. there is a chance of gusty Santa Ana winds by Wednesday.

Friday was the first day of a four-day heatwave. Temperatures warmed to about 5-15 deg above normal this afternoon away from the immediate coast, with highs in the warmest valleys and mountains in the triple digits. 

A strong upper level high will move into California intensifying the heat.  We expect mostly sunny skies during this event but some mid level moisture should move into the area late Saturday into Sunday with a few altocumulus clouds at times, otherwise any monsoonal moisture will be minimal.

The excessive heat will affect the region through Monday, although the hottest temps, expecting records in some areas, are expected on Saturday and Sunday. 

These highs on Saturday and Sunday will be about 15-25 deg above normal across the region. Temperatures will become dangerously hot for most areas, even over the coastal plain away from the beaches over the weekend. This kind of heat can be life-threatening and people are urged to use common sense, keep hydrated and stay out of the heat and in air-conditioned locations as much as possible.  Overnight lows will remain very warm as well over the weekend with readings in the 70s to lower 80s for many areas.

Labor Day temperatures will come down some but are still excessively hot.

In addition, gusty north sundowner winds can be expected sat and sun evenings for southern Santa Barbara County. These winds combined with hot and dry conditions will create critical fire weather.

We expect decent relief Tuesday but temperatures will stay above average for the next week.