In a startling weather update, Amber Lee reports a significant drop in temperatures across Southern California today, but residents are facing a more immediate threat: unhealthy air quality due to wildfire smoke. As temperatures soar to a blistering 90 degrees inland, the coastal areas will experience a cooler 72 degrees, but the respite is overshadowed by hazardous air conditions affecting millions.

A wildfire burning to the north is sending plumes of smoke into the region, prompting air quality alerts from Pasadena to Long Beach and the San Fernando Valley. Authorities urge residents, particularly those with respiratory issues, to stay indoors and seal their windows and doors. The smoky haze is expected to linger, creating a hazardous environment that could worsen throughout the day.

As the low-pressure system moves through, temperatures will drop temporarily, but don’t be fooled—this is just a brief pause before a significant heatwave hits next week. By the Fourth of July, expect temperatures to climb back into the 90s, with forecasts predicting triple-digit heat by mid-next week.

The clouds that have settled over the region will gradually clear, but the danger from the wildfire smoke remains a pressing concern. Residents are advised to monitor air quality updates closely and take necessary precautions. This is a critical moment for Southern California—stay alert and stay safe as we navigate these unpredictable weather conditions.