Southern California (or SoCal for short) is known for its laid-back charm, beautiful beaches, and near-perfect weather. But in August 2026, cities in Los Angeles and Orange County have faced scorching heatwaves with daily temperatures exceeding 90 degrees. Certain areas, such as San Gabriel and the Santa Monica mountains, have reached 112 degrees Fahrenheit!Â
If you’re a college student in SoCal, you might find yourself drained from the heat. I love attending Chapman University in Orange County, but it wasn’t easy to start my junior year and cross country season during a heatwave! Balancing new classes, relationships, and jobs can be challenging in itself, but adding an extreme heatwave to the mix can leave you feeling more fatigued than ever. Extreme heatwaves can significantly increase exhaustion and stress levels, so it’s important to give yourself grace.Â
Is it hotter than before?
While SoCal is no stranger to heatwaves, August 2026 saw record-breaking temperatures throughout the region. The Los Angeles neighborhood Woodland Hills reached 111 degrees Fahrenheit this summer, marking its hottest temperature since 1981. Inland cities such as Fullerton and Van Nuys have had consistent temperatures in the mid-90s. Even coastal communities near the ocean can’t combat the heat, as some coastal Orange County cities have been predicted to reach 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The extreme heat has even raised temperatures 20 degrees above average.Â
It’s tricky to know exactly why SoCal cities have been so hot. Besides obvious issues of global warming, meteorologists believe that extreme inland heat has contributed to the warmer weather in coastal areas. Additionally, moisture from the Pacific has likely contributed to cities’ humidity. These temperatures have been so overpowering that forecasters associate these conditions with increased risks of fires and thunderstorms.Â
It’s safe to say that students and any other SoCal residents have been put through the wringer this August. According to Orange County officials, people of all ages should drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous exercise in outdoor or non air-conditioned settings, and minimize their sun exposure during peak temperatures.Â
How I’m surviving
As someone who has lived on the East Coast for practically my whole life, the extreme humidity of summer and frigid temperatures of winter have defined my childhood. However, I still find myself feeling significantly less energized than usual. Easy runs have started to feel like sprints, and I still find myself reaching for cold beverages in order to think clearly. I initially thought that I was “too lazy” to deal with these conditions, but then I realized that my body is simply responding to the effects of extreme heat.Â
Although it can be difficult, I’ve allowed myself to take longer breaks and hang out in my air-conditioned apartment close to campus. I’m already exerting myself with hours of vigorous cross country workouts, and recovery goes hand-in-hand with athletic performance. In addition to water, I stay hydrated with electrolyte-infused drinks such as coconut water and certain energy drinks (according to UHC, electrolytes are crucial for regulating your body’s pH levels, blood pressure, and muscles).Â
If I could give you one piece of advice, I would encourage you to romanticize the heatwave as much as possible. I know, that sounds impossible. You can’t control the weather, but you can look forward to grabbing a tasty beverage after class or hosting a pool party with your friends. Chapman University is next to the Orange Circle, a public roundabout known for their quaint restaurants, coffee shops, and dessert venues. As long as you’re meeting your responsibilities, you don’t have to be productive every second of the day. Give yourself time to breathe before you’re bombarded with essays, exams, extracurricular activities, jobs, and any other activity that will shape your semester.Â
Luckily, weather reports for the next few weeks show a steady decrease of humidity and high temperatures. Phew!