San Diego, February 5, 2026
San Diego County recently witnessed an unprecedented heat wave, with temperatures soaring nearly 25 degrees above the historical average for this time of year. Inland areas surpassed 100°F while coastal regions approached the mid to upper 90s. The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory, urging residents to take precautions during these extreme conditions as climate change is expected to intensify future heat events.
San Diego Experiences Record-Breaking Heat
San Diego, California – On Saturday, February 3, 2026, San Diego County experienced temperatures nearly 25 degrees above the historical average for this time of year, with some areas reaching record-breaking highs.
Unseasonably High Temperatures
By 1 p.m., inland regions such as Santee, Valley Center, Borrego Springs, and Rancho San Diego had surpassed 100°F, marking the highest temperatures recorded in the area this year. El Cajon, Escondido, Poway, San Marcos, and Spring Valley followed closely, with temperatures in the mid to upper 90s.
National Weather Service Advisory
The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for the region, urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours. The advisory emphasized the importance of not leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles under these extreme conditions.
Historical Context
San Diego has a history of experiencing significant heat events. In 1963, the city recorded its highest temperature ever at 111°F, a record that still stands. Additionally, in 2015, March was the hottest on record for San Diego, with an average temperature of 66.6°F, surpassing the previous record set in 1978.
Climate Change Considerations
Experts warn that climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events in San Diego. By the 2040s, average daily highs could be 5°F higher than current levels, and by 2100, the number of heat wave days is projected to increase by 20% to 50%.
Safety Recommendations
Residents are advised to take precautions during extreme heat events, including staying hydrated, wearing loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours. The city has activated “Cool Zones” in public buildings to provide relief during such events.
Looking Ahead
While a brief cooldown is expected following this heat wave, San Diego residents should remain vigilant and prepared for future extreme heat events, especially as climate projections indicate an increase in their frequency and severity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What temperatures did San Diego reach on February 3, 2026?
On February 3, 2026, inland areas such as Santee, Valley Center, Borrego Springs, and Rancho San Diego reached temperatures exceeding 100°F, while El Cajon, Escondido, Poway, San Marcos, and Spring Valley experienced mid to upper 90s°F.
What precautions should residents take during extreme heat events?
Residents are advised to stay hydrated, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours. The city has activated “Cool Zones” in public buildings to provide relief during such events.
How does this heat wave compare to historical records in San Diego?
San Diego has a history of significant heat events. In 1963, the city recorded its highest temperature ever at 111°F, a record that still stands. Additionally, in 2015, March was the hottest on record for San Diego, with an average temperature of 66.6°F, surpassing the previous record set in 1978.
What is the expected impact of climate change on future heat events in San Diego?
Experts warn that climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events in San Diego. By the 2040s, average daily highs could be 5°F higher than current levels, and by 2100, the number of heat wave days is projected to increase by 20% to 50%.
What is the National Weather Service’s advice during heat advisories?
The National Weather Service advises residents to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and not leave children or pets unattended in vehicles under extreme conditions.
Key Features of the Heat Wave
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Record Temperatures | Inland areas exceeded 100°F; coastal areas in the mid to upper 90s°F. |
| Heat Advisory | Issued by the National Weather Service, urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours. |
| Historical Context | San Diego’s highest recorded temperature is 111°F, set in 1963. |
| Climate Change Impact | Projected increase in frequency and intensity of extreme heat events due to climate change. |
| Safety Recommendations | Stay hydrated, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours. |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
