June Ends with Sizzle: Coachella Valley Hits 114 Before Brief Cool Down

COACHELLA VALLEY, Calif. — A sweltering start to the week as the desert baked under a high of 114°F on Monday—well above the typical 107°F we expect this time of year. As we close out June, it’s notable that we managed to dodge any 120-degree days, a rare feat for summer in the Coachella Valley. For context, the last time June hit 120°F was back in 1950.

The heat we’re feeling is tied to a ridge of high pressure that’s been dominating the Southwest. This system, which had been lingering to the south last week, made its way directly over Southern California, driving temperatures up across the region.

But relief is in sight.

Meteorologists are tracking a new low-pressure system currently spinning just off the coast near Point Conception. This system is expected to drift inland and influence our weather through Thursday, bringing some much-needed moderation to our desert heat. By midweek, temperatures could dip slightly below seasonal norms—a welcome change.

Tuesday remains hot, with highs forecast around 113°F. But by Thursday, we may finally enjoy a bit of a breather before another warming trend returns heading into the weekend.

Bottom line: enjoy the brief cooldown while it lasts. Summer in the desert isn’t going anywhere.