LOS ANGELES — Temperatures in Southern California are forecast to rise this week, coinciding with the start of FIFA World Cup matches in the Los Angeles area.
The National Weather Service said warming is expected to begin on Monday, with highs reaching the 70s and lower 80s in the valleys and the mid- to upper 80s in desert areas. By Wednesday, temperatures could be 5 to 10 degrees warmer than on Monday, according to the weather service.
The first U.S. Men’s National Team match of the 2026 tournament is scheduled for Friday at SoFi Stadium against Paraguay. Kickoff is around 6 p.m. local time, when conditions are expected to be sunny with temperatures in the lower 70s, dropping to the mid-60s by the end of the game inside the covered stadium, the weather service said.
Los Angeles is hosting eight matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026, which runs from June 11 to July 19 across multiple host cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The city is also preparing fan events, including a FIFA Fan Festival at the LA Memorial Coliseum from June 11-14.
June typically brings mild conditions to the Los Angeles region due to coastal influences. Average high temperatures are about 77 degrees Fahrenheit, with July averaging around 83 degrees, according to historical data. Extreme heat is relatively rare during this period compared to other host cities, though the frequency of warmer days has increased over decades.
Officials have noted the importance of monitoring weather for player and spectator safety across venues. SoFi Stadium features a roof that provides passive cooling.
A spokesperson for local organizers said preparations for the matches include standard heat management protocols. “We are working closely with authorities to ensure safe conditions for everyone attending the events,” the spokesperson said.
Broader forecasts indicate that while temperatures are rising, they are expected to remain within seasonal norms for the coastal area. Details on potential impacts on outdoor fan activities remain subject to daily updates from the National Weather Service.
As of Wednesday, no heat advisories had been issued specifically for the stadium area, though inland regions could see higher readings. Organizers continue to monitor conditions ahead of the opening matches.
