


Fireworks, hot dogs, a competitive croquet match in the backyard — hot stuff.
No so much for the weather this Fourth of July weekend, meaning most of us will enjoy it a bit more.
Temperatures are projected to be lower than usual for this time of year — with highs in the 70s and 80s across much of Southern California.
Afternoons will bring a sea breeze to the coast.
“The weather is going to be beautiful,” said Philip Gonsalves, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service.
Along at least some coastal stretches, the anticipated highs are in the 60s and 70s. Some valleys could have to endure the 90s.
Much of the Inland Empire could feel highs in the mid- to upper 80s, said Stefanie Sullivan, another National Weather Service meteorologist.
The hottest local spots are expected to be in San Bernardino, Lake Elsinore and Hemet — at 92 degrees on Independence Day.
This hot, “super dry” climate — combined with illegal fireworks — “could be a recipe for disaster,” warned Chloe Castillo, a Cal Fire spokesperson.
Castillo said the agency planned to beef up its staffing for the holiday weekend.
“It’s one of our busiest times of the year,” Castillo said.