Published Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 02:43 AM PT
Burbank · Tuesday, July 21, 2026 · 2:43 AM · 75°F, 62% humidity, wind 0 mph SE (gusts 1), 29.37 inHg, UV 0, PM2.5 5
National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley effective through Thursday, July 24. This is not a drill, and it is not hyperbole—we’re talking dangerous, life-threatening temperatures.
What you need to know right now: Peak heat is expected Wednesday and Thursday. Temperatures are forecast to reach 110–115°F across the Valley and foothill areas. The combination of extreme heat, low humidity, and overnight lows that won’t dip below 80°F creates a cumulative heat-stress environment. Vulnerable populations—elderly residents, young children, people with chronic illness, and anyone on medications that affect heat regulation—are at highest risk. If you’re in one of these groups or caring for someone who is, this warning is for you specifically.
What to do:
Stay indoors during peak heat hours (roughly 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.). If you must go outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and limit strenuous activity to early morning or evening. Drink water constantly—not soda, not alcohol, not coffee. Water. Check on elderly neighbors, friends, and family members without air conditioning. If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion (dizziness, nausea, heavy sweating, weakness) or heat stroke (confusion, loss of consciousness, no sweating despite extreme heat), call 911 immediately. Heat stroke is a medical emergency.
If your AC is broken, head to a cooling center. LA County operates public cooling centers during extreme heat events—call 2-1-1 or visit your local library or community center for locations and hours. Don’t tough it out at home. That’s how people die.
The reality: Extreme heat kills more people in California than any other weather event. It’s not dramatic like fires or floods, so it doesn’t make the news the way it should. But it’s relentless and it’s coming, and the only defense is preparation and common sense. Keep your phone charged. Check your medications if you’re on blood-pressure or psychiatric drugs—heat can mess with their effectiveness. Stay hydrated. Stay inside. Stay alive.
This warning runs through Thursday evening. After that, temperatures should moderate slightly, but the Valley will still be hot. Plan accordingly.