Los Angeles Weather
Weather in Los Angeles, California: current conditions, forecast, warnings, monthly averages and seasonal guide
17°C
Overcast
Updated 28 Apr, 9:19 am
High / Low
22°C / 10°C
Feels Like
17°C
Humidity
59%
Wind
W 2 km/h
Wind Gusts
5 km/h
Dew Point
9°C
Pressure
1007 hPa
Rain Today
0 mm
UV Index
8 Very High
Hourly forecast
Now
21°C
16km/h
17:00
20°C
15km/h
18:00
19°C
13km/h
19:00
18°C
12km/h
20:00
16°C
7km/h
21:00
15°C
3km/h
22:00
14°C
2km/h
23:00
13°C
5km/h
Wed 29 Apr
00:00
12°C
5km/h
01:00
12°C
7km/h
02:00
11°C
7km/h
03:00
11°C
7km/h
04:00
11°C
7km/h
05:00
10°C
8km/h
06:00
10°C
8km/h
07:00
11°C
6km/h
08:00
15°C
4km/h
09:00
17°C
5km/h
10:00
19°C
6km/h
11:00
21°C
5km/h
12:00
23°C
10km/h
13:00
23°C
16km/h
14:00
22°C
18km/h
15:00
22°C
17km/h
16:00
21°C
16km/h
17:00
21°C
16km/h
18:00
19°C
16km/h
19:00
17°C
2%
12km/h
20:00
16°C
2%
8km/h
21:00
15°C
2%
4km/h
22:00
14°C
2%
4km/h
23:00
14°C
2%
5km/h
Thu 30 Apr
00:00
14°C
1%
4km/h
01:00
13°C
1%
7km/h
02:00
14°C
1%
10km/h
03:00
14°C
1%
8km/h
04:00
15°C
1%
8km/h
05:00
15°C
1%
9km/h
06:00
16°C
10km/h
07:00
16°C
9km/h
08:00
17°C
8km/h
09:00
17°C
7km/h
10:00
19°C
6km/h
11:00
20°C
8km/h
12:00
22°C
1%
12km/h
13:00
23°C
1%
16km/h
14:00
24°C
1%
19km/h
15:00
23°C
1%
22km/h
7-day forecast for Los Angeles
| Day | Conditions | Rain | Temp | Summary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Today28 Apr | Overcast | 0% | 22°C10°C | Overcast with a high of 22°C and low of 10°C. No rain expected. UV index 8 (very high). | |
| Wed29 Apr | Mainly clear | 2% | 23°C10°C | Mainly clear with a high of 23°C and low of 10°C. 2% chance of rain. UV index 8 (very high). | |
| Thu30 Apr | Foggy | 1% | 24°C13°C | Foggy with a high of 24°C and low of 13°C. 1% chance of rain. UV index 8.1 (very high). | |
| Fri1 May | Mainly clear | 0% | 25°C16°C | Mainly clear with a high of 25°C and low of 16°C. No rain expected. UV index 8.2 (very high). | |
| Sat2 May | Overcast | 0% | 25°C17°C | Overcast with a high of 25°C and low of 17°C. No rain expected. UV index 8.1 (very high). | |
| Sun3 May | Overcast | 1% | 23°C16°C | Overcast with a high of 23°C and low of 16°C. 1% chance of rain. UV index 7.9 (high). | |
| Mon4 May | Overcast | 3% | 19°C14°C | Overcast with a high of 19°C and low of 14°C. 3% chance of rain. UV index 7.5 (high). |
Extended outlook — days 8 to 14
Extended forecasts beyond 7 days are less reliable and should be used as a general guide only.
| Day | Conditions | Rain | Temp | Summary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tue5 May | Partly cloudy | 7% | 20°C14°C | Partly cloudy with a high of 20°C and low of 14°C. 7% chance of rain. UV index 7.8 (high). | |
| Wed6 May | Clear sky | 4% | 23°C15°C | Clear sky with a high of 23°C and low of 15°C. 4% chance of rain. UV index 7.9 (high). | |
| Thu7 May | Overcast | 2% | 25°C16°C | Overcast with a high of 25°C and low of 16°C. 2% chance of rain. UV index 7.7 (high). | |
| Fri8 May | Overcast | 3% | 23°C17°C | Overcast with a high of 23°C and low of 17°C. 3% chance of rain. UV index 6.6 (high). | |
| Sat9 May | Partly cloudy | 2% | 23°C16°C | Partly cloudy with a high of 23°C and low of 16°C. 2% chance of rain. UV index 7.7 (high). | |
| Sun10 May | Mainly clear | 3% | 24°C16°C | Mainly clear with a high of 24°C and low of 16°C. 3% chance of rain. UV index 8.1 (very high). | |
| Mon11 May | Clear sky | 3% | 26°C18°C | Clear sky with a high of 26°C and low of 18°C. 3% chance of rain. UV index 8.2 (very high). |
Sun & Moon — Los Angeles
Sunrise06:06
Sunset19:34
Daylight13h 28m
PhaseLast Quarter
Illumination54%
UV Index — Los Angeles
8
Very High
03681114
Extra protection needed. Minimise sun exposure during midday hours.
Air Quality — Los Angeles
25
Fair
020406080100+
PM2.519 µg/m³
PM1023.2 µg/m³
US AQI51
Air quality is acceptable. Unusually sensitive people should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion.
Air quality data from Open-Meteo
Climate overview
Los Angeles, California, is characterized by a Mediterranean climate, scientifically classified as Csa under the Köppen system. This designation signifies a climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city's unique geographical position, nestled between the Pacific Ocean to the west and various mountain ranges to the north and east, is the primary driver of its distinct weather patterns. The presence of the cool California Current offshore significantly moderates coastal temperatures, preventing extreme heat and contributing to the characteristic summer dryness.
The semi-permanent North Pacific High-pressure system plays a crucial role in shaping Los Angeles' climate, particularly during the summer months. This high-pressure cell diverts storm systems to the north, leading to prolonged periods of clear skies, abundant sunshine, and negligible rainfall from late spring through early autumn. Conversely, in winter, the North Pacific High weakens and shifts south, allowing frontal systems and Pacific storms to bring much-needed precipitation to the region. The city's latitude also places it within the subtropical high-pressure belt, which further reinforces its arid summer conditions.
Prevailing winds are another significant factor. The dominant onshore flow from the cool Pacific Ocean largely dictates coastal temperatures, especially during summer afternoons when the marine layer frequently produces morning fog and low clouds that burn off later in the day. Offshore Santa Ana winds, typically occurring in autumn and winter, are a notable deviation. These warm, dry winds blow from the desert interior, often leading to elevated temperatures, extremely low humidity, and heightened wildfire risk, as they channel through mountain passes and canyons. The varied topography within the greater Los Angeles area further contributes to localized climate differences, creating a fascinating mosaic of microclimates.
Comparatively, Los Angeles shares its Mediterranean climate characteristics with cities such as Rome, Italy; Athens, Greece; and Perth, Australia. All these locations experience similar seasonal rainfall patterns and temperature regimes, though local geographical features introduce unique nuances. The protective mountain ranges surrounding Los Angeles help shield it from extreme continental weather systems, contrasting with areas further inland that experience greater temperature extremes and less oceanic influence. This results in a climate that is generally more benign and consistent than many other Csa regions globally.
Los Angeles receives approximately 380mm (15 inches) of rainfall annually, with the wettest months from December to March, with February typically receiving the most rainfall. Los Angeles boasts an impressive average of over 3,000 sunshine hours annually, significantly higher than the national average for the United States. During summer, the city enjoys an average of 10-12 hours of sunshine per day, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities and contributing to consistently high UV index readings. In contrast, winter sees about 7-8 hours daily, still ample for enjoyment, though marine layer fog can occasionally reduce morning sun. This abundant sunshine means UV protection is crucial year-round, not just during peak summer months.
Los Angeles exhibits a fascinating array of microclimates influenced by its complex topography and proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Coastal areas, like Santa Monica and Malibu, experience significant moderation from the persistent marine layer and sea breezes, resulting in milder summers and warmer winters compared to inland regions. This oceanic influence often leads to
Monthly averages for Los Angeles
Climate data sourced from National Weather Service (NWS) climate data for Los Angeles, CA. Summer temperatures range from 19°C to 29°C (66°F to 84°F), though inland valleys can exceed 35°C (95°F), while winter sits between 9°C to 19°C (48°F to 66°F).
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rain (mm) | Rain Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 18.3°C | 8°C | 79.2 | 6.1 |
| February | 18.6°C | 8.9°C | 88.4 | 6.2 |
| March | 19.1°C | 9.8°C | 64.5 | 6 |
| April | 20.6°C | 11.2°C | 22.9 | 3.2 |
| May | 21.8°C | 13.5°C | 5.6 | 1.7 |
| June | 24.3°C | 15.6°C | 1.5 | 0.7 |
| July | 27.6°C | 17.6°C | 0.3 | 0.2 |
| August | 28.1°C | 17.8°C | 2.5 | 0.3 |
| September | 27.6°C | 16.9°C | 8.1 | 0.7 |
| October | 24.6°C | 14.2°C | 17 | 2.1 |
| November | 21.3°C | 10.4°C | 31 | 3.1 |
| December | 18.6°C | 7.7°C | 59.9 | 5.2 |
Water temperature
Ocean water temperatures along the Los Angeles coast are influenced by the cool California Current. During summer, temperatures range from 19–22°C (66–72°F), generally comfortable for swimming, surfing, and other water sports without a wetsuit for most people. Popular spots like Santa Monica Beach and Malibu offer pleasant conditions.
In winter, water temperatures drop to 14–16°C (57–61°F). At these cooler temperatures, a wetsuit is typically recommended for anyone planning to spend extended time in the ocean, particularly for surfing or diving. While too cold for casual swimming for many, hardy swimmers and surfers still enjoy the waves. Estuary temperatures in places like Marina del Rey can be slightly warmer or cooler depending on tidal flows and recent air temperatures.
Summer water temperatures around Los Angeles range from 19–22°C (66–72°F), cooling to 14–16°C (57–61°F) in winter.
Things to do this summer in Los Angeles
Summers in Los Angeles are hot and sunny, especially inland, so light, breathable clothing like cotton or linen is essential. Hydration is key; carry a reusable water bottle. High SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are non-negotiable due to very high UV levels, even on cloudy mornings. Early morning travel is best to avoid peak heat and traffic. If visiting beaches, remember sand can get extremely hot. Be aware of early wildfire warnings, particularly during Santa Ana conditions.
- Relax at Santa Monica Beach
- Explore the Santa Monica Pier
- Hike Runyon Canyon Park
- Catch a concert at the Hollywood Bowl
- Visit Universal Studios Hollywood
- Enjoy outdoor dining in Beverly Hills
- Experience the LA County Fair
- Go surfing in Malibu
Best time to visit Los Angeles
The absolute best time to visit Los Angeles is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) shoulder seasons. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm but not excessively hot, with lower humidity and fewer crowds compared to the summer. These periods offer ideal conditions for sightseeing, beach visits, and outdoor dining, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 26°C.
Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season, bringing the warmest temperatures, especially inland. While coastal areas benefit from the marine layer and sea breezes, attractions can be crowded, and accommodation prices are at their highest. Avoid late summer if sensitive to heat or smog. Winter (November to March) is cooler and brings the majority of the annual rainfall, though many days are still sunny and mild. This is an excellent time for cultural attractions, holiday events, and enjoying fewer crowds, but pack layers and an umbrella.
Weather radar — Los Angeles
View live rain radar for Los Angeles
Live radar imagery from the official weather service →
Weather warnings & safety
Los Angeles faces several severe weather risks, though not typically the cyclonic storms seen in other regions. Wildfires pose the most significant and frequent threat, particularly during the dry Santa Ana wind events from autumn through spring, fueled by dry vegetation and low humidity. Heatwaves are common in summer, especially inland, with temperatures often exceeding 38°C (100°F) and increasing health risks.
Winter brings the potential for heavy rainfall, which can lead to flash flooding and mudslides, particularly in areas near recent wildfire burn scars. Thunderstorms, while not as frequent or intense as in other parts of the U.S., can occur during winter storms or monsoonal surges in late summer, bringing localized heavy rain and lightning. Frost is rare in coastal and urban central areas but can impact outlying valleys and higher elevations during clear winter nights.
Drought is an ongoing concern for Southern California, impacting water resources and exacerbating wildfire danger. While tropical cyclones do not directly impact Los Angeles, remnants can occasionally bring unusual humidity and rainfall. Strong winds, both from Santa Anas and Pacific storms, can cause localized damage and power outages.
Official warning sources: National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard Warnings · California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) · ALERTWildfire Camera Network
Latest weather news — Los Angeles
Weather near Los Angeles
Frequently asked questions about Los Angeles weather
What is the weather in Los Angeles right now?
Right now in Los Angeles it is 17°C and overcast. Today's high is 22°C with a low of 10°C. Humidity is at 59%. Wind is W at 2 km/h.
What is the 14-day forecast for Los Angeles?
Today (28 Apr): Overcast with a high of 22°C and low of 10°C. No rain expected. UV index 8 (very high). Wed (29 Apr): Mainly clear with a high of 23°C and low of 10°C. 2% chance of rain. UV index 8 (very high). Thu (30 Apr): Foggy with a high of 24°C and low of 13°C. 1% chance of rain. UV index 8.1 (very high). Fri (1 May): Mainly clear with a high of 25°C and low of 16°C. No rain expected. UV index 8.2 (very high). Sat (2 May): Overcast with a high of 25°C and low of 17°C. No rain expected. UV index 8.1 (very high). Sun (3 May): Overcast with a high of 23°C and low of 16°C. 1% chance of rain. UV index 7.9 (high). Mon (4 May): Overcast with a high of 19°C and low of 14°C. 3% chance of rain. UV index 7.5 (high). Tue (5 May): Partly cloudy with a high of 20°C and low of 14°C. 7% chance of rain. UV index 7.8 (high). Wed (6 May): Clear sky with a high of 23°C and low of 15°C. 4% chance of rain. UV index 7.9 (high). Thu (7 May): Overcast with a high of 25°C and low of 16°C. 2% chance of rain. UV index 7.7 (high). Fri (8 May): Overcast with a high of 23°C and low of 17°C. 3% chance of rain. UV index 6.6 (high). Sat (9 May): Partly cloudy with a high of 23°C and low of 16°C. 2% chance of rain. UV index 7.7 (high). Sun (10 May): Mainly clear with a high of 24°C and low of 16°C. 3% chance of rain. UV index 8.1 (very high). Mon (11 May): Clear sky with a high of 26°C and low of 18°C. 3% chance of rain. UV index 8.2 (very high).
What is the air quality in Los Angeles today?
The current air quality index in Los Angeles is 25 (European AQI), rated "Fair". Air quality is acceptable. Unusually sensitive people should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion. PM2.5 is 19 µg/m³. PM10 is 23.2 µg/m³.
What is the weather like in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry, and sunny summers, and mild, relatively wet winters. Temperatures are generally pleasant year-round, with substantial sunshine. Coastal areas are moderated by the Pacific Ocean, while inland valleys can see more extreme temperatures.
What are the average temperatures in Los Angeles?
In summer, average daily highs range from 19°C to 29°C, but can exceed 35°C inland. Winters see comfortable averages of 9°C to 19°C. Spring and autumn offer very pleasant temperatures, typically between 20°C and 26°C, making them ideal for visiting.
How much does it rain in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles receives approximately 380mm (15 inches) of rain annually. The vast majority of this precipitation occurs during the winter months, from December to March, with February typically being the wettest. Summers are exceptionally dry, often with little to no measurable rainfall.
What is the best time to visit Los Angeles?
The best time to visit Los Angeles is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). These shoulder seasons offer warm, comfortable temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and fewer crowds than the peak summer months, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
What should I wear when visiting Los Angeles?
Pack layers! Even in summer, evenings can be cool, especially near the coast. Light, breathable clothing for daytime is key, along with a jacket or sweater for evenings. In winter, add a warmer coat and an umbrella for potential rain. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential year-round.
What is the wind like in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles generally experiences light to moderate onshore breezes from the Pacific Ocean, which provide cooling relief along the coast. However, the region is also known for Santa Ana winds in autumn and winter, which are strong, hot, and dry offshore winds originating from the desert interior, significantly increasing wildfire risk.
What is the UV index like in Los Angeles and how do I protect myself?
The UV index in Los Angeles is frequently high, particularly during summer, often reaching 8-10+. Even in winter, it can be moderate to high, around 3-6+. Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30+, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM - 4 PM), regardless of the season.
When are sunrise and sunset in Los Angeles?
Sunrise and sunset times vary significantly throughout the year. In summer, sunrise is typically around 5:45 AM and sunset around 8:00 PM. In winter, sunrise is closer to 6:50 AM and sunset around 4:50 PM. You can find precise daily times and daylight hours on the dedicated sunrise-sunset page.
What about moon phases and their visibility in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles offers excellent moon viewing opportunities due to generally clear skies. All moon phases, from new moon to full moon, are visible throughout the year. The dedicated sunrise-sunset page provides daily moon phase and illumination percentage, helping you plan for stargazing or simply observing the lunar cycle.
Is the water warm enough for swimming in Los Angeles?
Ocean water temperatures are generally comfortable for swimming in summer, ranging from 19°C to 22°C (66–72°F). During winter, the water cools to 14°C to 16°C (57–61°F), making a wetsuit highly recommended for those planning to swim or surf for extended periods.
What is the air quality like in Los Angeles (AQI)?
Air quality in Los Angeles can vary. While significant improvements have been made, periods of moderate air pollution (AQI Yellow) can occur, especially during summer due to ozone and inversions, or during wildfire events from particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10). Real-time AQI levels and health advice are available on the air quality page.
What are the risks of severe weather in Los Angeles?
The primary severe weather risks include wildfires, especially during Santa Ana wind events from autumn through spring. Summer heatwaves are also common. While less frequent, heavy winter rains can cause flash flooding and mudslides, particularly in burn areas. Thunderstorms can also occur. The city is not directly impacted by hurricanes.
How does weather affect driving conditions in Los Angeles?
Driving in Los Angeles is largely unaffected by severe weather for most of the year. However, heavy winter rains can cause slick roads, reduced visibility, and localized flooding on freeways and surface streets, requiring extra caution. Wildfire events can lead to smoke-filled air and road closures in affected areas. Dense marine layer fog can create hazardous driving conditions at times, especially in coastal and valley areas during morning hours.