The annual number of hot days are expected to increase dramatically in Southern California over the next 30 years due to the effects of climate change.
In O.C., that means the number of days that temperatures reach or exceed 90 degrees will jump from seven to 22.
Riverside County, meanwhile, is expected to see the number of days that temperatures reach or exceed 100 degrees increase from 39 in 2023 to 55 in 2053. Some cooling effects from the Pacific Ocean are expected to take the edge off; in other words, it could be worse. Still, Jeremy Porter, a chief research officer with First Street Foundation, said that you won’t have to go very far inland to feel the heat.
“It doesn't take much in the way of spatial distance from the coast before you start to see an increase,” he said.Fires. Mudslides. Heat waves. What questions do you need answered as you prepare for the effects of the climate emergency?