Los Angeles: From Sunshine Paradise to Sweat-Fest City
Ah, Los Angeles. The land of dreams, movie stars, and... blistering heat. Yes, while LA is famous for its beaches and sunshine, that sunshine can pack a serious punch. So if you're planning a visit to the City of Angels, ditch the idea of packing your angel wings (those things would never survive) and let's talk about how hot this place can actually get.
Don't worry, it's a dry heat... mostly
First things first, Angelenos love to tell you one thing: "It's a dry heat!" And they're not wrong. Unlike some swampy locales (no names, Florida), the heat in LA is usually accompanied by low humidity. This means the sweat does (mostly) evaporate, which is nice...ish. But don't let that fool you. A dry 95°F (35°C) can still feel like a sauna wrapped in a hair dryer.
So, how hot does it ACTUALLY get?
Los Angeles isn't exactly the Mojave Desert, but it can sure feel like it sometimes. The average summer high temperature in LA is a sizzling 86°F (30°C). But that's just average. We Angelenos know things can get a little more...enthusiastic.
Record-breaker alert! The hottest temperature ever recorded in Los Angeles was a scorching 113°F (45°C) back in 2006. On days like that, forget sightseeing. You're better off friending a fire hydrant and strategically placing yourself in its spray zone.
Pro tips for surviving the LA heatwave
Fear not, heat-averse adventurer! With a little planning, you can conquer the LA heat and still have an amazing time. Here are some tips from a seasoned sun-dodger:
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Water is your best friend. Carry a reusable water bottle everywhere you go and pretend it's your precious bodily fluid.
- Dress for sweat success. Loose, breathable clothing in light colors is your best bet. Think linen, not leather.
- Sunscreen is non-negotiable. The sun in LA is strong enough to tan your eyeballs, so slap on that SPF and reapply religiously.
- Embrace the siesta. Follow the lead of the locals and take a break from the midday sun. Museums, movie theaters, and air-conditioned restaurants are your havens.
- Hit the beach (at the right time). The beach can be a great way to cool off, but avoid the peak heat hours. Early mornings or evenings are your best bet.
Remember, a little heat shouldn't stop you from enjoying all that LA has to offer. Just pack your sunscreen, befriend a water bottle, and be prepared to strategically deploy sweat-resistant dance moves when that mariachi band starts playing.
