Halloween trick-or-treaters in the Coachella Valley can expect exceptionally warm weather this evening, with temperatures reaching the upper 80s to low 90s through sunset before gradually cooling into the 70s later tonight. The unseasonably hot conditions are prompting meteorologists to suggest that costumed children and their families consider lighter outfits and perhaps carry small coolers instead of traditional candy bags to stay comfortable during their evening activities.
This October has been particularly notable for its extreme heat, recording 18 days above average temperatures throughout the month. However, unlike 2024, the region has managed to avoid any record-breaking triple-digit temperatures this year. The persistent warmth is being caused by a ridge of high pressure that has established itself over the southwestern region, creating stable atmospheric conditions that trap heat and prevent cooling.
The current weather pattern shows no immediate signs of change, with forecasters predicting that high temperatures in the 90s will continue well into the weekend and early next week. These temperatures remain significantly above seasonal averages for late October and early November in the desert region. Weather officials are encouraging residents who plan to attend outdoor events, such as the Living Healthy Expo scheduled for Saturday in Cathedral City from 9 AM to 2 PM, to take appropriate precautions against heat exposure.
Meteorological relief appears to be on the horizon, though it will be gradual. By Monday and Tuesday, a trough of low pressure system moving inland from the Pacific Ocean is expected to begin moderating the extreme temperatures. However, even with this atmospheric change, desert areas will likely continue running several degrees warmer than normal for this time of year. The incoming weather system will bring continued dry skies and light winds, with the first substantial cooldown not expected until midweek as the low-pressure trough deepens and strengthens.
As Halloween concludes this extended period of warm weather, residents can look forward to some much-needed autumn relief approaching in the coming days. The transition coincides with the end of Daylight Saving Time on November 2nd, when clocks will "fall back" one hour. While this change will provide an extra hour of sleep on Sunday morning, it also marks the beginning of a lengthy period of early darkness, with sunsets occurring before 5:00 PM until January 15th, creating notably shorter afternoon and evening daylight hours.
