Southern California Heat Wave Rescues Over Two Dozen Amid Record Temperatures

Southern California experienced an early-season heat wave with record-breaking temperatures, prompting emergency rescues of more than two dozen people, mostly hikers and outdoor enthusiasts affected by heat-related illnesses. In Orange County alone, at least 15 people were rescued, including a group of 11 hikers from Newport Coast trails and four from Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, with one airlifted due to severe heat exhaustion. Riverside County saw nine rescues across various locations such as Temecula and Palm Desert, including a dehydrated hiker airlifted near Big Bear Canyon Loop. Los Angeles had notable rescues as well, including a 55-year-old woman airlifted from the Hollywood Hills suffering from heat exhaustion. Authorities emphasized caution, advising inexperienced hikers to avoid the outdoors during extreme heat and to stay well-hydrated. The intense heat was followed by cooler conditions and some relief from the record highs by Sunday.